Anaplasma phagocytophilum

In Anaplasma phagocytophilum is a bacterium that can be transmitted by ticks, and humans a febrile illness, the Human granulocytic anaplasmosis caused. Even animals such as dogs (Canine anaplasmosis ), cats, horses and ruminants can be infected.

Nomenclature and History

Based on genetic analyzes, the former species Ehrlichia phagocytophilum, Ehrlichia equi and the HGE agent to the new type Anaplasma phagocytophilum were summarized. First, the nature of Anaplasma phagocytophila was incorrectly called. The disease caused is therefore now no more than human granulocytic ehrlichiosis ( HGE ), but called human granulocytic anaplasmosis.

In veterinary medicine, the pathogen is known since 1932, about the first human infection was reported in 1990 or 1994.

Way of life

The gram -negative bacterium lives obligate intracellular in granulocytes, where it multiplies in cytoplasmic vacuoles. Under the microscope, can be prepared by infection characteristic 2-5 microns large inclusions seen called because of its similarity to morulae mulberries.

Transmission

The transmission to humans and animals by ticks bites: The most common carriers in Europe is the tick (Ixodes ricinus), Ixodes scapularis in North America, especially Ixodes pacificus and. A protection against ticks is thus at the same time infection prevention.