# An Atypical Case Presentation of Babesiosis

## TL;DR

An elderly man with no known risk factors presented with severe symptoms of babesiosis, highlighting the importance of considering tick-borne diseases in non-endemic regions.

## Contribution

This case emphasizes the atypical presentation of babesiosis in low-risk populations and non-endemic areas.

## Key findings

- A 75-year-old male with no known risk factors presented with severe babesiosis symptoms.
- The patient required red blood cell exchange and plasma exchange therapy for treatment.
- The case underscores the need to consider tick-borne diseases in differential diagnosis regardless of location or risk factors.

## Abstract

Babesiosis is a tick-borne illness that can cause a wide variety of symptoms based on the severity of the disease. Mild presentations can be difficult to identify, and as a result, treatment may be delayed. A 75-year-old male presented to the Emergency Department (ED) with weakness, leg pain, and a fall. He was found to be febrile and tachycardic on arrival, and lab work revealed thrombocytopenia and acute renal dysfunction. He was admitted and found to have a Babesiosis infection, requiring treatment with red blood cell exchange and plasma exchange therapy. Tick-borne illnesses should be included in the differential even in low-risk populations and non-endemic regions due to the severity of disease complications.