What is the first line treatment for Ehrlichiosis?

The first-line treatment for Ehrlichiosis is doxycycline. This is a tetracycline antibiotic that effectively targets the bacteria responsible for the infection, which belong to the Ehrlichia genus. Doxycycline works by inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis, ultimately leading to the death of the bacteria. It has proven to be particularly effective in treating both human monocytic ehrlichiosis and human granulocytic anaplasmosis, which are caused by Ehrlichia chaffeensis and Anaplasma phagocytophilum, respectively.

Doxycycline is preferred because it has a good oral bioavailability, can be administered at home, and is associated with a rapid clinical response. Early treatment with doxycycline is critical, as it can help to prevent serious complications, such as organ failure and death, that can result from untreated Ehrlichiosis. This makes it a well-supported and widely accepted choice in clinical practice for managing this infection.