Babesiosis-Related Sepsis: Clinical Characteristics and Outcomes from a Multicenter Retrospective Global Research Network Analysis

Babesiosis is a tick-borne protozoan infection often caused by Babesia microti. Symptomatic babesiosis typically presents as a malaria-like syndrome; however, it may result in more serious presentations, including sepsis. Immunosuppression is a known risk factor for severe babesiosis; however, limited data exist on additional predictors of sepsis. The aim for the present study is to identify predictors, complications, and outcomes of babesiosis sepsis. Using the TriNetX research database, adults who had polymerase chain reaction-confirmed babesiosis between June 2010 and May 2024 were identified. Demographic, clinical, and outcome data were analyzed. Sepsis was defined using International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision, codes. Among 1,566 patients identified, 159 (10.2%) developed sepsis. Sepsis was associated with female sex, older age, and predominantly cardiac or renal comorbidities. Complications of babesiosis sepsis included acute kidney injury, shock, and hemolytic anemia. Patients with sepsis had higher 30-day, 90-day, and 1-year mortality rates. Specific demographics and the presence of cardiac or renal comorbidities may be associated with increased disease severity.