Tick paralysis

Tick paralysis

Imbedded Tick

Caused by a neurotoxin secreted by Dermacentor variabilis (American dog), Dermacentor andersoni (Rocky Mt. wood), Ixodes scapularis (deer/blacklegged),  and Amblyomma americanum (lone star ticks). 

Symptoms begin 2-6 days  after attachment and primarily involve a paralysis that begins in the feet and spreads upward. May be fatal if respiratory muscles involved.
 
Paralysis resolves when tick is completely removed, usually within 24 hours of removal. 
 

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