The First Evidence of Nanism in Ixodes (Ixodes) scapularis (Acari: Ixodidae), Found Parasitizing a Human Host.
J Med Entomol
; 54(5): 1224-1228, 2017 09 01.
Article
em En
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-28591843
ABSTRACT
Ixodes scapularis Say 1821, the primary vector of several human pathogens in the northeastern and upper Midwestern United States, has considerable genetic and morphological variation throughout its range. Recently, developmental or teratological abnormalities have been observed in this species for the first time, further complicating morphological identification. Here, we report the first evidence of nanism (dwarfism) in I. scapularis, found parasitizing a human host. We used molecular methods and scanning electron microscopy to identify the specimen. Morphological identification confirmed that the specimen is substantially smaller, approximately half the size, than a typical I. scapularis female. Here we discuss the recent reports of teratological abnormalities in I. scapularis, particularly from the Hudson River valley region of the northeastern United States, and highlight the need for additional studies of teratology in this important species and its potential implications in disease transmission.
Palavras-chave
Texto completo:
1
Coleções:
01-internacional
Base de dados:
MEDLINE
Assunto principal:
Ixodes
Limite:
Animals
/
Child
/
Humans
Idioma:
En
Ano de publicação:
2017
Tipo de documento:
Article