Serologic Evidence of Human Monocytic and Granulocytic Ehrlichiosis in Israel
Author Information
Author(s): Avi Keysary, Lili Amram, Gershon Keren, Zev Sthoeger, Israel Potasman, Amir Jacob, Carmella Strenger, Jacqueline E. Dawson, Trevor Waner
Primary Institution: Israel Institute for Biological Research
Hypothesis
Is human ehrlichiosis present in Israel among patients with fever of undetermined cause?
Conclusion
The study provides the first serologic evidence that the agents of human monocytic ehrlichiosis and human granulocytic ehrlichiosis are present in Israel.
Supporting Evidence
- Four cases of human monocytic ehrlichiosis were found among the patients tested.
- Three serum samples were also seroreactive for antibodies to E. canis.
- One patient had a higher titer to the HGE agent than to E. chaffeensis, indicating HGE as the primary cause of infection.
- All patients had influenzalike symptoms with high fever, and none of the cases was fatal.
Takeaway
Doctors in Israel found that some people with fever might have a tick-borne illness called ehrlichiosis, which can make them feel very sick.
Methodology
A retrospective serosurvey was conducted on 1,000 serum samples from patients with fever of undetermined cause, testing for antibodies to Ehrlichia chaffeensis and E. canis.
Limitations
The study did not include patients who had traveled overseas before their illness.
Participant Demographics
Patients ranged in age from 8 to 77 years, with a mix of male and female participants.
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