Paralysis with Ixodes cornuatus envenomation

Abstract

Ixodes cornuatus is a tick that is widely distributed in Victoria, Tasmania and southern New South Wales. Serious human envenomation has not been reported previously. The clinical syndrome that results from envenomation by Ixodes cornuatus in a three-year-old boy is presented. Bulbar palsy and respiratory failure necessitated endotracheal intubation and mechanical ventilation for five days. Canine tick antivenom was administered.