What should be done and which tests should be taken if bitten by a tick? - briefly
Promptly extract the attached arthropod with fine‑tipped tweezers, disinfect the bite site, and monitor for rash or fever. Baseline serologic testing for Borrelia burgdorferi, followed by repeat testing after 2–4 weeks and, if early symptoms develop, PCR of blood or skin tissue, is recommended.
What should be done and which tests should be taken if bitten by a tick? - in detail
When a tick attaches, remove it promptly with fine‑point tweezers, grasping close to the skin and pulling upward with steady pressure. Disinfect the site immediately after extraction and document the removal time, tick stage, and any visible signs on the arthropod.
Observe the bite area for at least four weeks. Record the emergence of erythema migrans, fever, headache, muscle aches, or joint swelling. Seek medical evaluation if any of these symptoms develop, even when the bite appears minor.
Laboratory assessment should be based on the clinical picture and exposure risk. Recommended investigations include:
- Serologic testing for Borrelia burgdorferi (ELISA followed by confirmatory Western blot) if erythema migrans or systemic signs are present.
- Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for Borrelia DNA from skin biopsy or blood when early infection is suspected but serology is negative.
- Serology for Anaplasma phagocytophilum (immunofluorescence assay) when fever, leukopenia, or thrombocytopenia occur.
- Serology for Ehrlichia chaffeensis (IFA) if symptoms align with human monocytic ehrlichiosis.
- Serologic panels for Babesia microti (indirect immunofluorescence) if hemolytic anemia or hemoglobinuria develop.
- PCR for Rickettsia spp. when rash or vasculitic manifestations appear.
If laboratory results are positive, initiate pathogen‑specific therapy without delay. Doxycycline remains the first‑line agent for most tick‑borne bacterial infections; alternative regimens apply for pregnant patients or children under eight. Continuous follow‑up ensures resolution of symptoms and monitors for potential complications.