TiARA (Tick-Induced Allergies Research and Awareness): From Regional to National Resource since March 2013 — The Association Specialists
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TiARA (Tick-Induced Allergies Research and Awareness): From Regional to National Resource since March 2013 (332)

Sheryl van Nunen 1 , Antony Basten 2 , Nicholas Cowdery 2 , Derek Anderson 2 , Kevin Broady 2 , Maria Said 2 , Andrew Ratchford 2 , Stephen Doggett 2 , Edith Arns 2 , Geoff Cook 2 , Stephen Ginsborg 2
  1. Royal North Shore Hospital, St Leonards, NSW, Australia
  2. TiARA (Tick-Induced Allergies Research and Awareness) Committee , Royal North Shore Hospital, NSW, Australia

Background

The association between mammalian meat-induced anaphylaxis (MMIA) and previous tick bites was first described by van Nunen et al. in 2007 and since reported in the USA and Europe. In addition, tick-induced anaphylaxis (TIA) and other allergic reactions to ticks are common causes of presentation to Emergency Departments in our region.  Whilst TIA occurs immediately the tick is disturbed,  MMIA, however, is delayed for several hours after ingestion and therefore this diagnosis may not be easily apparent to either patient or doctor.  Over the last decade, both MMIA and TIA have become much more prevalent, prompting the formation of TiARA (Tick-induced Allergies Research and Awareness).

Aims

To achieve awareness of tick-related allergies by the public, health professionals, those in at-risk occupations, educators and government.

To provide resources and support for sufferers of tick-induced allergies who live remote from expert medical and dietetic advisors.

Methods

Donations of gifts-in-kind and the use of electronic means of information dissemination have obviated funding constraints.        

Results

Public awareness has been achieved by our donated website, www.tiara.org.au, and pamphlets, articles in community and international newspapers, and talks given to public institutions and community service organisations. Distribution of e-pamphlets and website details via professional organisations have brought the existence and increasing prevalence of these complaints to the attention of general practitioners, emergency physicians and their trainees and pharmacists. Those in at-risk occupations may source an informative presentation posted on the PSA (Public Service Association) website. Anaphylaxis educators are giving schools information regarding TIA and MMIA. All electorate offices in NSW have received information.       

Conclusions

Since TiARA's inception in March 2013, considerable progress has been made in awareness of tick-induced allergies throughout the community and in the provision of expert information (including from fellow sufferers) regarding the background to the problem and its diagnosis and management.