Revisiting detachment techniques in human-biting ticks - 20/07/16
Abstract |
Background |
Early and complete removal of ticks using the right technique is important to reduce tick-transmitted diseases. Several chemical and mechanical detachment techniques have been described previously.
Objective |
We aimed to compare the performance of 4 tick-detachment techniques that are widely used in human beings and to determine the optimal method from these techniques.
Methods |
A cross-sectional study was conducted on 160 patients between April and June 2010. Patients with reported tick bite were reviewed retrospectively and divided into the following 4 groups according to the tick-detachment technique used: card detachment, lassoing, freezing, and tweezers. Performance of each technique was evaluated according to the number of fully detached, nondetached, and crushed ticks and the duration of application.
Results |
Of the 160 tick-bite cases assessed, we found the following efficacy rates: 82.5% (33/40), technique using tweezers; 47.5% (19/40), lassoing technique; 7.5% (3/40), card detachment; and 0% (0/40), freezing technique. The efficacy rate of the technique using tweezers was significantly higher than that of the other 3 techniques (P < .05).
Limitations |
This was a relatively small sample size and not designed as a randomized clinical trial.
Conclusion |
Tick detachment using tweezers, performed in an appropriate manner, is the easiest and most effective technique.
Le texte complet de cet article est disponible en PDF.Key words : freezing, parasite-host relations, techniques, tick bites, tick infestations, tweezers
Plan
Funding sources: None. |
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Conflicts of interest: None declared. |
Vol 75 - N° 2
P. 393-397 - août 2016 Retour au numéroBienvenue sur EM-consulte, la référence des professionnels de santé.
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