Amblyomma americanum

Definition

Amblyomma americanum, commonly known as the lone star tick, is a species of tick that can transmit various bacterial infections to humans. It is predominantly found in the southeastern and eastern United States.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Amblyomma americanum is a primary vector for Ehrlichia chaffeensis, the causative agent of human monocytic ehrlichiosis.
2. This tick species can also transmit Rickettsia rickettsii, which causes Rocky Mountain spotted fever.
3. Lone star ticks are known to cause Southern Tick-Associated Rash Illness (STARI), which presents with a rash similar to Lyme disease but is considered less severe.
4. They are identifiable by a distinctive white dot or 'lone star' on the back of adult females.
5. Amblyomma americanum has been implicated in alpha-gal syndrome, an allergy to red meat caused by a reaction to a carbohydrate transferred during bites.

Review Questions

Related terms

Ehrlichia chaffeensis:

Bacterium causing human monocytic ehrlichiosis, transmitted by Amblyomma americanum.

Rickettsia rickettsii:

Bacterium causing Rocky Mountain spotted fever, which can be transmitted by various tick species including Amblyomma americanum.

Alpha-gal syndrome: An allergy to red meat linked to bites from Amblyomma americanum due to transfer of alpha-gal carbohydrate.