Malignant Mediterranean spotted fever

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Published Sep 30, 2015
DOI: https://doi.org/10.22551/2015.07.0203.10042
Agripino Oliveira Gonçalo Sarmento

Abstract

Mediterranean spotted fever has long been considered as a benign disease, but associated with septic shock and encephalitis, becomes malignant and potentially fatal. We present the case of a 77 year-old man admitted into the emergency room after tick bite in abdominal region and fever 39.6°C. After admission, a maculopapular rash appears with the achievement of palms and soles associated with behavioral changes and adult respiratory distress syndrome. In intensive care CSF examination revealed 6 nuclear elements and a protein level of 94 mg/dL, and electroencephalogram supported the existence of encephalitis. Rickettsia serology by indirect immunofluorescence showed IgG> 1/640 and IgM=1/80. Septic shock, responded to antibiotic therapy and patient was discharged to long term care. This case demonstrates that a benign and common disease suffered a poor outcome owing to the accelerated clinical course with acute onset and rapid deterioration.

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Keywords

Mediterranean spotted fever, septic shock, encephalitis

References
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How to Cite
Oliveira, A., & Sarmento, G. (2015). Malignant Mediterranean spotted fever. Archive of Clinical Cases, 2(3), Arch Clin Cases 2015; 2(3):108-116. https://doi.org/10.22551/2015.07.0203.10042
Issue
Vol. 2 No. 3 (2015)
Section
Case Reports

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How to Cite

Oliveira, A., & Sarmento, G. (2015). Malignant Mediterranean spotted fever. Archive of Clinical Cases, 2(3), Arch Clin Cases 2015; 2(3):108-116. https://doi.org/10.22551/2015.07.0203.10042