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Brucellosis

Zoonotic bacterial infection transmitted from animals to humans, presenting with fever and joint pain.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Internal Medicine department. Book Appointment →

What is Brucellosis?

Brucellosis is a zoonotic infection caused by bacteria of the Brucella genus and transmitted predominantly from animals such as cattle, sheep, goats, and pigs to humans. Unpasteurized milk and dairy products, raw meat consumption, and direct contact with infected animals are the main routes of transmission.

The disease can present as acute, subacute, or chronic. Undulant fever, profuse night sweats, and severe joint-muscle pain are classic symptoms. Skeletal-articular, neurological, and reproductive organ complications can occur.

In Türkiye, it is especially common in rural and livestock-raising areas. Early diagnosis and long-term combination antibiotic therapy are critically important in preventing relapse.

Symptoms

Undulant fever (rises in the evening and falls in the morning)
Profuse night sweats
Joint and muscle pain
Severe fatigue and weakness
Loss of appetite and weight loss
Headache and depression
Spleen and liver enlargement

Risk Factors

Consumption of unpasteurized milk and cheese
Consumption of raw or undercooked meat
Livestock farmers and veterinarians
Butchers and slaughterhouse workers
Laboratory workers (working with Brucella cultures)
Travel to endemic areas
Assisting in the birth or abortion of infected animals

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • If undulant fever lasting longer than 2 weeks is present
  • If joint pain and night sweats are together
  • When febrile illness develops in individuals engaged in livestock
  • If central nervous system symptoms (headache, altered consciousness) accompany
  • If there is no response to treatment or relapse

Treatment Methods

01
Combination antibiotic therapy (doxycycline + rifampicin — 6 weeks)
02
Triple combination in severe complications (with streptomycin added)
03
Full adherence to long-term treatment prevents relapse
04
Extended treatment protocols in endocarditis and neurobrucellosis
05
Consumption of pasteurized milk and products with hygiene measures (protection)
06
Vaccination and control programs targeting animals

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Enfeksiyon Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Enfeksiyon Hastalıkları Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.