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Rickettsial Infections

A group of febrile diseases with rash transmitted by ticks and other arthropods.

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.

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 Rickettsial Infections?

Rickettsiae are obligate intracellular Gram-negative bacteria. Epidemic typhus, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, Mediterranean spotted fever, and related diseases such as ehrlichiosis and anaplasmosis belong to this group.

Transmission usually occurs via the bites of ticks, lice, fleas, and mites. Rickettsiae proliferate in the vascular endothelium and cause vasculitis; for this reason rash is a characteristic finding.

Early diagnosis and doxycycline treatment significantly reduce mortality; in clinically suspected cases treatment should be started without waiting for laboratory results.

Symptoms

Sudden high fever
Severe headache
Muscle and joint pain
Maculopapular or petechial rash
Black necrotic lesion at the bite site (eschar / tache noire)
Malaise and nausea
Altered consciousness in some forms

Risk Factors

Living in tick-endemic areas
Rural life and farming
Camping and hiking
Poor hygiene environments (typhus)
Homelessness and refugee camps
Animal contact
Travel

When to See a Doctor?

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

  • When fever and rash develop after a tick bite
  • When unexplained fever follows visit to an endemic area
  • When a black lesion is noticed at the bite site
  • When fever, rash, and headache occur together
  • If altered consciousness or shock signs develop (urgent)

Treatment Methods

01
Doxycycline (drug of choice, including in children)
02
Alternative: chloramphenicol (in special situations such as pregnancy)
03
Early initiation is life-saving
04
Supportive care (fluids, fever control)
05
Intensive care in severe cases
06
Tick, louse, and flea prevention measures

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

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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.