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Gafarova MT, Eremeeva ME. History and Current Status of Mediterranean Spotted Fever (MSF) in the Crimean Peninsula and Neighboring Regions along the Black Sea Coast. Pathogens 2023; 12:1161. [PMID: 37764969 PMCID: PMC10536518 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12091161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2023] [Revised: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Mediterranean spotted fever (MSF) is a tick-borne rickettsiosis caused by Rickettsia conorii subspecies conorii and transmitted to humans by Rhipicephalus sanguineus ticks. The disease was first discovered in Tunisia in 1910 and was subsequently reported from other Mediterranean countries. The first cases of MSF in the former Soviet Union were detected in 1936 on the Crimean Peninsula. This review summarizes the historic information and main features of MSF in that region and contemporary surveillance and control efforts for this rickettsiosis. Current data pertinent to the epidemiology of the disease, circulation of the ticks and distribution of animal hosts are discussed and compared for each of the countries in the Black Sea basin where MSF occurs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muniver T. Gafarova
- S.I. Georgievsky Medical Academy (Academic Unit), V.I. Vernadsky Crimean Federal University, 295051 Simferopol, Russia
| | - Marina E. Eremeeva
- Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health, Georgia Southern University, Statesboro, GA 30458, USA
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Mediterranean Spotted Fever: Current Knowledge and Recent Advances. Trop Med Infect Dis 2021; 6:tropicalmed6040172. [PMID: 34698275 PMCID: PMC8544691 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed6040172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2021] [Revised: 09/17/2021] [Accepted: 09/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Mediterranean spotted fever (MSF) is an emerging tick-borne rickettsiosis of the spotted fever group (SFG), endemic in the Mediterranean basin. By virtue of technological innovations in molecular genetics, it has been determined that the causative agent of MSF is Rickettsia conorii subspecies conorii. The arthropod vector of this bacterium is the brown dog tick Rhipicephalus sanguineus. The true nature of the reservoir of R. conorii conorii has not been completely deciphered yet, although many authors theorize that the canine population, other mammals, and the ticks themselves could potentially contribute as reservoirs. Typical symptoms of MSF include fever, maculopapular rash, and a characteristic eschar (“tache noire”). Atypical clinical features and severe multi-organ complications may also be present. All of these manifestations arise from the disseminated infection of the endothelium by R. conorii conorii. Several methods exist for the diagnosis of MSF. Serological tests are widely used and molecular techniques have become increasingly available. Doxycycline remains the treatment of choice, while preventive measures are focused on modification of human behavior and vector control strategies. The purpose of this review is to summarize the current knowledge on the epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical features, diagnosis, and treatment of MSF.
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Abstract
There is no updated information on the spread of Rickettsiales in Italy. The purpose of our study is to take stock of the situation on Rickettsiales in Italy by focusing attention on the species identified by molecular methods in humans, in bloodsucking arthropods that could potentially attack humans, and in animals, possible hosts of these Rickettsiales. A computerized search without language restriction was conducted using PubMed updated as of December 31, 2020. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) methodology was followed. Overall, 36 species of microorganisms belonging to Rickettsiales were found. The only species identified in human tissues were Anaplasma phagocytophilum,Rickettsia conorii, R. conorii subsp. israelensis, R. monacensis, R. massiliae, and R. slovaca. Microorganisms transmissible by bloodsucking arthropods could cause humans pathologies not yet well characterized. It should become routine to study the pathogens present in ticks that have bitten a man and at the same time that molecular studies for the search for Rickettsiales can be performed routinely in people who have suffered bites from bloodsucking arthropods.
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Pansa P, Hsia Y, Bielicki J, Lutsar I, Walker AS, Sharland M, Folgori L. Evaluating Safety Reporting in Paediatric Antibiotic Trials, 2000-2016: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Drugs 2019; 78:231-244. [PMID: 29218501 DOI: 10.1007/s40265-017-0850-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There are very few options to treat multidrug-resistant bacterial infections in children. A major barrier is the duration and complexity of regulatory trials of new antibiotics. Extrapolation of safety data from adult trials could facilitate drug development for children. OBJECTIVE We performed a systematic review on the safety of antibiotic clinical trials (CTs) in children (0-18 years) to evaluate the overall quality of safety trials conducted in children and to determine if age-specific adverse events (AEs) could be identified for specific antibiotic classes. DATA SOURCES We searched the MEDLINE, Cochrane CENTRAL, and ClinicalTrials.gov electronic databases for trials conducted between 2000 and 2016. STUDY SELECTION All trials in which safety was declared a primary or secondary endpoint were included. Exclusion criteria were (1) topical or inhalational route of administration; (2) non-infectious conditions; (3) administration for prophylaxis rather than treatment; (4) selected population (i.e. cystic fibrosis, malignancies, HIV and tuberculosis); and (5) design other than randomized controlled trials. Trials reporting data on both adults and children were included only if paediatric results were reported separately. DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS Two authors independently extracted the data. To assess the quality of published trials, the Extension for harms for Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials (CONSORT) Statement 2004 was used. MAIN OUTCOME AND MEASURE In order to quantitatively assess the rate of developing AEs by drug class, the numbers of overall and body-system-specific AEs were collected for each study arm, and then calculated per single drug class as median and interquartile range (IQR) of the proportions across CTs. The AEs most frequently reported were compared in the meta-analysis by selecting the CTs on the most represented drug classes. RESULTS Eighty-three CTs were included, accounting for 27,693 children. Overall, 69.7% of CONSORT items were fully reported. The median proportion of children with any AE was 22.5%, but did not exceed 8% in any single body system. Serious drug-related AEs and drug-related discontinuations were very rare (median 0.3 and 0.9%, respectively). Limitations included the inability to stratify by age group, particularly neonates. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE Overall, AEs in paediatric antibiotic CTs were predictable and class-specific, and no unexpected (age-specific) side effects were identified. Smaller, open-label, dose-finding, high-quality, single-arm pharmacokinetic trials seem potentially sufficient for certain common antibiotic classes, extrapolating well-established safety profiles determined from large adult efficacy trials. This approach could reduce duration and enhance subsequent registration of urgently needed new antibiotics. This will need to be combined with enhanced methods of pharmacovigilance for monitoring of emerging AEs in routine clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Pansa
- Paediatric Infectious Disease Research Group, Institute for Infection and Immunity, St George's University of London, Jenner Wing, Level 2, Room 2.215E, Cranmer Terrace, London, SW17 0RE, UK.,Department of Pediatrics, Sapienza University of Rome, Policlinico Umberto I, Viale Regina Elena 324, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Yingfen Hsia
- Paediatric Infectious Disease Research Group, Institute for Infection and Immunity, St George's University of London, Jenner Wing, Level 2, Room 2.215E, Cranmer Terrace, London, SW17 0RE, UK
| | - Julia Bielicki
- Paediatric Infectious Disease Research Group, Institute for Infection and Immunity, St George's University of London, Jenner Wing, Level 2, Room 2.215E, Cranmer Terrace, London, SW17 0RE, UK.,Paediatric Pharmacology, University Children's Hospital Basel, Spitalstrasse 33, 4056, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Irja Lutsar
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, University of Tartu, Ravila 19, 50411, Tartu, Estonia
| | - A Sarah Walker
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX1 3PA, UK
| | - Mike Sharland
- Paediatric Infectious Disease Research Group, Institute for Infection and Immunity, St George's University of London, Jenner Wing, Level 2, Room 2.215E, Cranmer Terrace, London, SW17 0RE, UK
| | - Laura Folgori
- Paediatric Infectious Disease Research Group, Institute for Infection and Immunity, St George's University of London, Jenner Wing, Level 2, Room 2.215E, Cranmer Terrace, London, SW17 0RE, UK.
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Youssoufou Souley AS, El Ouatassi N, Alsubari A, Zerrouk R, Reda K, Oubaaz A. [Macular atrophy secondary to bilateral involvement in Mediterranean spotted fever]. J Fr Ophtalmol 2019; 42:e47-e50. [PMID: 30683535 DOI: 10.1016/j.jfo.2018.05.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2018] [Revised: 05/25/2018] [Accepted: 05/25/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- A S Youssoufou Souley
- Service d'ophtalmologie, hôpital Militaire d'Instruction Mohamed V, 10010 Rabat, Maroc.
| | - N El Ouatassi
- Service d'ophtalmologie, hôpital Militaire d'Instruction Mohamed V, 10010 Rabat, Maroc
| | - A Alsubari
- Service d'ophtalmologie, hôpital Militaire d'Instruction Mohamed V, 10010 Rabat, Maroc
| | - R Zerrouk
- Service d'ophtalmologie, hôpital Militaire d'Instruction Mohamed V, 10010 Rabat, Maroc
| | - K Reda
- Service d'ophtalmologie, hôpital Militaire d'Instruction Mohamed V, 10010 Rabat, Maroc
| | - A Oubaaz
- Service d'ophtalmologie, hôpital Militaire d'Instruction Mohamed V, 10010 Rabat, Maroc
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Walter A, von Braunmühl T, Flaig MJ, Wollenberg A. Rickettsiose beim Kind nach Safari-Urlaub. Hautarzt 2018; 69:65-67. [DOI: 10.1007/s00105-018-4181-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Torpiano P, Pace D. Clinically-diagnosed Mediterranean Spotted Fever in Malta. Travel Med Infect Dis 2018; 26:16-24. [PMID: 29462726 DOI: 10.1016/j.tmaid.2018.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2017] [Revised: 02/13/2018] [Accepted: 02/16/2018] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mediterranean Spotted Fever (MSF) is a tick-borne zoonosis caused by Rickettsia conorii which is endemic in Malta, an island in the South Mediterranean that is a popular tourist destination. Diagnosis is frequently based on clinical manifestations as laboratory results are often limited to a retrospective diagnosis. We describe the clinical presentation, diagnosis and treatment of children <16 years who presented with MSF from 2011 to 2016. METHOD The demographics, clinical findings, laboratory results, management and outcome of all children hospitalised with suspected MSF based on the presence of fever and an eschar, were retrieved from their case notes. RESULTS Over the five-year study period six children, aged between 17 months and 15 years, were diagnosed with MSF. All children had contact with ticks and the majority presented in summer. Laboratory results were non-specific and included elevated inflammatory markers, lymphocytosis/lymphopenia and hyponatraemia. Serological and molecular techniques were used for diagnosis. Response to clarithromycin or doxycycline was immediate. CONCLUSION MSF should be included in the differential diagnosis of fever, rash and an eschar in children who travel to Malta. Despite advances in molecular diagnostics, clinical diagnosis remains important in the management of children with suspected MSF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Torpiano
- Department of Paediatrics, Mater Dei Hospital, Tal-Qroqq, Msida, MSD 2090, Malta.
| | - David Pace
- Department of Paediatrics, Mater Dei Hospital, Tal-Qroqq, Msida, MSD 2090, Malta
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Sullivan KE, Bassiri H, Bousfiha AA, Costa-Carvalho BT, Freeman AF, Hagin D, Lau YL, Lionakis MS, Moreira I, Pinto JA, de Moraes-Pinto MI, Rawat A, Reda SM, Reyes SOL, Seppänen M, Tang MLK. Emerging Infections and Pertinent Infections Related to Travel for Patients with Primary Immunodeficiencies. J Clin Immunol 2017; 37:650-692. [PMID: 28786026 PMCID: PMC5693703 DOI: 10.1007/s10875-017-0426-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2017] [Accepted: 07/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
In today's global economy and affordable vacation travel, it is increasingly important that visitors to another country and their physician be familiar with emerging infections, infections unique to a specific geographic region, and risks related to the process of travel. This is never more important than for patients with primary immunodeficiency disorders (PIDD). A recent review addressing common causes of fever in travelers provides important information for the general population Thwaites and Day (N Engl J Med 376:548-560, 2017). This review covers critical infectious and management concerns specifically related to travel for patients with PIDD. This review will discuss the context of the changing landscape of infections, highlight specific infections of concern, and profile distinct infection phenotypes in patients who are immune compromised. The organization of this review will address the environment driving emerging infections and several concerns unique to patients with PIDD. The first section addresses general considerations, the second section profiles specific infections organized according to mechanism of transmission, and the third section focuses on unique phenotypes and unique susceptibilities in patients with PIDDs. This review does not address most parasitic diseases. Reference tables provide easily accessible information on a broader range of infections than is described in the text.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen E Sullivan
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 3615 Civic Center Blvd., Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.
| | - Hamid Bassiri
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Center for Childhood Cancer Research, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, 3501 Civic Center Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Ahmed A Bousfiha
- Clinical Immunology Unit, Infectious Department, Hopital d'Enfant Abderrahim Harouchi, CHU Ibn Rochd, Laboratoire d'Immunologie Clinique, d'Inflammation et d'Allergie LICIA, Faculté de Médecine et de Pharmacie, Université Hassan II, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Beatriz T Costa-Carvalho
- Department of Pediatrics, Federal University of São Paulo, Rua dos Otonis, 725, São Paulo, SP, 04025-002, Brazil
| | - Alexandra F Freeman
- NIAID, NIH, Building 10 Room 12C103, 9000 Rockville, Pike, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - David Hagin
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, University of Tel Aviv, 6 Weizmann St, 64239, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Yu L Lau
- Department of Paediatrics & Adolescent Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Rm 106, 1/F New Clinical Building, Pok Fu Lam, Hong Kong.,Queen Mary Hospital, 102 Pokfulam Road, Pok Fu Lam, Hong Kong
| | - Michail S Lionakis
- Fungal Pathogenesis Unit, Laboratory of Clinical Infectious Diseases, National Institute of Allergy & Infectious Diseases (NIAID), National Institutes of Health (NIH), 9000 Rockville Pike, Building 10, Room 11C102, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Ileana Moreira
- Immunology Unit, Hospital de Niños Ricardo Gutiérrez, Gallo 1330, 1425, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Jorge A Pinto
- Division of Immunology, Department of Pediatrics, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Av. Alfredo Balena 190, room # 161, Belo Horizonte, MG, 30130-100, Brazil
| | - M Isabel de Moraes-Pinto
- Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, Federal University of São Paulo, Rua Pedro de Toledo, 781/9°andar, São Paulo, SP, 04039-032, Brazil
| | - Amit Rawat
- Pediatric Allergy and Immunology, Department of Pediatrics, Advanced Pediatrics Centre, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Shereen M Reda
- Pediatric Department, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Saul Oswaldo Lugo Reyes
- Immunodeficiencies Research Unit, National Institute of Pediatrics, Av Iman 1, Torre de Investigacion, Piso 9, Coyoacan, 04530, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Mikko Seppänen
- Harvinaissairauksien yksikkö (HAKE), Rare Disease Center, Helsinki University Hospital (HUH), Helsinki, Finland
| | - Mimi L K Tang
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, The Royal Children's Hospital, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
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Purssell A, Lau R, Boggild AK. Azithromycin and Doxycycline Attenuation of Acanthamoeba Virulence in a Human Corneal Tissue Model. J Infect Dis 2017; 215:1303-1311. [PMID: 27578848 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiw410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2016] [Accepted: 08/15/2016] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Amoebic keratitis is a potentially blinding eye infection caused by ubiquitous, free-living, environmental acanthamoebae, which are known to harbor bacterial endosymbionts. A Chlamydia-like endosymbiont has previously enhanced Acanthamoeba virulence in vitro. We investigated the potential effect of Acanthamoeba-endosymbiont coinfection in a human corneal tissue model representing clinical amoebic keratitis infection. Methods Environmental and corneal Acanthamoeba isolates from the American Type Culture Collection were screened for endosymbionts by amplifying and sequencing bacterial 16S as well as Chlamydiales-specific DNA. Each Acanthamoeba isolate was used to infect EpiCorneal cells, a 3-dimensional human corneal tissue model. EpiCorneal cells were then treated with azithromycin, doxycycline, or control medium to determine whether antibiotics targeting common classes of bacterial endosymbionts attenuated Acanthamoeba virulence, as indicated by decreased observed cytopathic effect and inflammatory biomarker production. Results A novel endosymbiont closely related to Mycobacterium spp. was identified in Acanthamoeba polyphaga 50495. Infection of EpiCorneal cells with Acanthamoeba castellanii 50493 and A. polyphaga 50372 led to increased production of inflammatory cytokines and cytopathic effects visible under microscopy. These increases were attenuated by azithromycin and doxycycline. Conclusions Our findings suggest that azithromycin and doxycycline may be effective adjuvants to standard antiacanthamoebal chemotherapy by potentially abrogating virulence-enhancing properties of bacterial endosymbionts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Purssell
- Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver
| | | | - Andrea K Boggild
- Public Health Ontario Laboratories.,Tropical Disease Unit, Toronto General Hospital.,Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Colomba C, Trizzino M, Giammanco A, Bonura C, Di Bona D, Tolomeo M, Cascio A. Israeli Spotted Fever in Sicily. Description of two cases and minireview. Int J Infect Dis 2017; 61:7-12. [PMID: 28408252 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2017.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2017] [Revised: 03/28/2017] [Accepted: 04/03/2017] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Mediterranean spotted fever (MSF) is endemic in Italy, where Rickettsia conorii subsp. conorii was thought to be the only pathogenic rickettsia and Rhipicephalus sanguineus the vector and main reservoir. R. conorii subsp. israelensis, which belongs to the R. conorii complex, is the agent of Israeli spotted fever (ISF); apart from Israel, it has also been found in Italy (Sicily and Sardinia) and in different regions of Portugal. We describe here two severe cases of ISF which occurred in otherwise healthy Italian adults. Their characteristics are analyzed and discussed in the light of other 91 cases found through a systematic review of international literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Colomba
- Dipartimento di Scienze per la Promozione Della Salute e Materno-Infantile, Università di Palermo, Italy.
| | - Marcello Trizzino
- Dipartimento di Scienze per la Promozione Della Salute e Materno-Infantile, Università di Palermo, Italy.
| | - Anna Giammanco
- Dipartimento di Scienze per la Promozione Della Salute e Materno-Infantile, Università di Palermo, Italy.
| | - Celestino Bonura
- Dipartimento di Scienze per la Promozione Della Salute e Materno-Infantile, Università di Palermo, Italy.
| | - Danilo Di Bona
- Dipartimento dell'Emergenza e dei Trapianto d'Organo, Università di Bari, Italy.
| | - Manlio Tolomeo
- Dipartimento di Scienze per la Promozione Della Salute e Materno-Infantile, Università di Palermo, Italy.
| | - Antonio Cascio
- Dipartimento di Scienze per la Promozione Della Salute e Materno-Infantile, Università di Palermo, Italy.
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Colomba C, Siracusa L, Trizzino M, Gioè C, Giammanco A, Cascio A. Myocarditis in Mediterranean spotted fever: a case report and a review of the literature. JMM Case Rep 2016; 3:e005039. [PMID: 28348768 PMCID: PMC5330236 DOI: 10.1099/jmmcr.0.005039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2015] [Accepted: 04/19/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Mediterranean spotted fever (MSF) is a tick-borne acute febrile disease caused by Rickettsia conorii. Most cases follow a benign course, with a case fatality rate of 3-7 % among hospitalized patients. Complications are described mainly in adult patients and include hepatic, renal, neurological and cardiac impairment. Among cardiac complications, pericarditis, myocarditis and heart rhythm disorders are uncommon complications in MSF and only a few cases have been reported in the literature. CASE PRESENTATION We describe a new case of acute myocarditis complicating MSF in an immunocompetent adult patient without risk factors for severe MSF. CONCLUSION Myocarditis is an uncommon but severe complication of MSF. Clinicians should be aware of a possible cardiac involvement in patients with MSF. Close monitoring and an aggressive approach are essential to reduce mortality rates of MSF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Colomba
- Dipartimento di Scienze per la promozione della salute e materno-infantile, Università di Palermo, Italy
| | - Lucia Siracusa
- Dipartimento di Scienze per la promozione della salute e materno-infantile, Università di Palermo, Italy
| | - Marcello Trizzino
- Dipartimento di Scienze per la promozione della salute e materno-infantile, Università di Palermo, Italy
| | - Claudia Gioè
- Dipartimento di Scienze per la promozione della salute e materno-infantile, Università di Palermo, Italy
| | - Anna Giammanco
- Dipartimento di Scienze per la promozione della salute e materno-infantile, Università di Palermo, Italy
| | - Antonio Cascio
- Dipartimento di Scienze per la promozione della salute e materno-infantile, Università di Palermo, Italy
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A Rare Case of Mediterranean Spotted Fever and Encephalitis. Case Rep Infect Dis 2016; 2016:2421540. [PMID: 28053795 PMCID: PMC5174160 DOI: 10.1155/2016/2421540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2016] [Revised: 11/07/2016] [Accepted: 11/22/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Mediterranean spotted fever is a tick-borne zoonotic disease caused by Rickettsia conorii. It is transmitted by the dog tick Rhipicephalus sanguineus. It usually presents as a benign self-limited disease characterized by a skin rash, high fever, and, sometimes, a characteristic ulcer at the tick bite site called tache noir. The course of this disease is usually benign, although severe manifestations have been previously described, mainly in adults. Neurological manifestations are very unusual. We present a case of Mediterranean spotted fever with encephalitis to highlight the importance of clinical suspicion, mainly in endemic areas, the potential severity of this disease, and the need of early initiation of therapy in order to prevent severe complications.
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Randomized Trial of Clarithromycin for Mediterranean Spotted Fever. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2015; 60:1642-5. [PMID: 26711765 DOI: 10.1128/aac.01814-15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2015] [Accepted: 12/15/2015] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The classic antibiotic treatment for Mediterranean spotted fever (MSF) is based on tetracyclines or chloramphenicol, but chloramphenicol's bone marrow toxicity makes tetracyclines the treatment of choice. However, it is convenient to have alternatives available for patients who are allergic to tetracyclines, pregnant women, and children <8 years old. We conducted a randomized clinical trial to compare clarithromycin with doxycycline or josamycin in the treatment of MSF. Forty patients were evaluated (23 male; mean age, 39.87 years); 13 patients were aged <14 years. Seventeen patients received clarithromycin, and 23 received doxycycline or josamycin. The interval between the onset of symptoms and the start of treatment was 4.04 ± 1.70 days in the clarithromycin group versus 4.11 ± 1.60 days in the doxycycline/josamycin group (P = not significant [NS]). Time to the disappearance of fever after treatment was 2.67 ± 1.55 days in the clarithromycin group versus 2.22 ± 1.35 days in the doxycycline/josamycin (P = NS). The symptoms had disappeared at 4.70 ± 2.25 days in the clarithromycin group versus at 4.75 ± 3.08 days in the doxycycline/josamycin (P = NS). There were no adverse reactions to treatment or relapses in either group. In conclusion, clarithromycin is a good alternative to doxycycline or josamycin in the treatment of MSF.
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Crespo P, Seixas D, Marques N, Oliveira J, da Cunha S, Meliço-Silvestre A. Mediterranean spotted fever: case series of 24 years (1989-2012). SPRINGERPLUS 2015; 4:272. [PMID: 26090319 PMCID: PMC4469589 DOI: 10.1186/s40064-015-1042-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2014] [Accepted: 05/13/2015] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Mediterranean spotted fever (MSF) is the most prevalent zoonosis in Portugal. To characterize it's evolution between 1989 and 2012, the authors reviewed the cases diagnosed at their unit during this period. METHODS Review of clinical records of patients with MSF diagnosis, between 1989 and 2012. RESULTS Data from 250 patients was included, 54% male. Mean age at diagnosis was 58 years (11-92). Mean annual incidence was 10 cases, with clear summer predominance. Most patients, 78% lived in rural areas, 34% had contact with dogs and 10% noticed the tick bite. Most common symptoms were: fever (98%), myo-arthralgia (64%) and headache (48%). Maculopapular rash was noticed in 87%, affecting palms in 77% and soles in 69%. Inoculation eschar was found in 60%, mostly located on the trunk. Treatment included doxycycline in 86% and chloramphenicol in 12%, with a mean duration of 8 days. Most frequent blood test abnormalities were C-reactive protein, lactate dehydrogenase, aspartate aminotransferase and alanine transaminase elevations and thrombocytopenia. First serologic evaluation was positive in 37% (78/212), having seroconversion been documented in 85% (72/85). Most frequent complication was acute renal injury. ICU admission occurred in 5%. Average length of hospital stay was 11.2 days (1-106), with a mortality of 3.6%. CONCLUSIONS In our series, there was clear summer predominance of MSF, which had rural origin in 78%. Most common symptoms were fever, myo-arthralgia and headache. Maculopapular rash was noticed in 87% of cases and inoculation eschar in 60%. Most cases had favourable outcome, having 5% been admitted to ICU. Mortality was 3.6%.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro Crespo
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Praceta Prof. Mota Pinto, 3000-075 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Diana Seixas
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Praceta Prof. Mota Pinto, 3000-075 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Nuno Marques
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Praceta Prof. Mota Pinto, 3000-075 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Joaquim Oliveira
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Praceta Prof. Mota Pinto, 3000-075 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Saraiva da Cunha
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Praceta Prof. Mota Pinto, 3000-075 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - A Meliço-Silvestre
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Praceta Prof. Mota Pinto, 3000-075 Coimbra, Portugal
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15
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Colomba C, Imburgia C, Trizzino M, Titone L. First case of Mediterranean spotted fever-associated rhabdomyolysis leading to fatal acute renal failure and encephalitis. Int J Infect Dis 2014; 26:12-3. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2014.01.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2013] [Revised: 12/26/2013] [Accepted: 01/24/2014] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
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16
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Meslin P, Renoux MC, Manin C, Wendremaire P, Rosselini D, Tambat A, Tiprez C, Akhdar M. Une fièvre boutonneuse méditerranéenne chez un nourrisson de 2 mois. Arch Pediatr 2014; 21:772-5. [DOI: 10.1016/j.arcped.2014.04.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2013] [Revised: 10/31/2013] [Accepted: 04/18/2014] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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17
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Abstract
Rickettsial infections are common in southern Europe and the most frequent and lethal type is Mediterranean spotted fever, caused by Rickettsia conorii. The disease is usually characterised by the classical triad of fever, eschar and rash, and is generally a mild disease in children. Complications including neurological involvement are rarely described. We report an unusual case of meningitis in an 18-year-old man, presenting during summer with fever and persistent headache. The cerebrospinal fluid analysis revealed increased cellularity (107 cells/μL), hypoglycorrhachia (50% of glycaemia) and hyperproteinorrhachia (284 mg/dL). Rickettsial infection was confirmed by serology and the patient was treated with doxycycline, with a favourable outcome. The patient's pet squirrel and/or associated vectors might be involved in the transmission of Rickettsia spp. This case underlines the importance of a high clinical suspicion and the benefits of early empirical treatment when facing compatible epidemiological contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inês Salva
- Department of Pediatrics, Hospital de Dona Estefânia, Lisbon, Portugal
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18
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Botelho-Nevers E, Socolovschi C, Raoult D, Parola P. Treatment of Rickettsia spp. infections: a review. Expert Rev Anti Infect Ther 2013; 10:1425-37. [PMID: 23253320 DOI: 10.1586/eri.12.139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Human rickettsioses caused by intracellular bacteria of the genus Rickettsia are distributed worldwide and are transmitted by arthropod vectors such as ticks, fleas, mites and lice. They have a wide range of manifestations from benign to life-threatening diseases. Mortality rates of up to 30% have been reported for some rickettsioses. Here, the authors will review in vitro and human studies of the various compounds that have been used for the treatment of Rickettsia spp. infections. The authors will also provide recommendations for the treatment of spotted fever and typhus group rickettsioses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabeth Botelho-Nevers
- Unité de Recherche en Maladies Infectieuses et Tropicales Emergentes, Aix-Marseille Université, UMR CNRS 7278, IRD 198, INSERM U1095, Faculté de Médecine, Marseille, France
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19
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Botelho-Nevers E, Rovery C, Richet H, Raoult D. Analysis of risk factors for malignant Mediterranean spotted fever indicates that fluoroquinolone treatment has a deleterious effect. J Antimicrob Chemother 2011; 66:1821-30. [DOI: 10.1093/jac/dkr218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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20
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Garnier JM, Jurquet AL, Retornaz K, Fournier PE, Minodier P. La fièvre boutonneuse méditerranéenne chez l’enfant. Arch Pediatr 2009; 16 Suppl 2:S93-5. [DOI: 10.1016/s0929-693x(09)75309-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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21
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Dana AN. Diagnosis and treatment of tick infestation and tick-borne diseases with cutaneous manifestations. Dermatol Ther 2009; 22:293-326. [PMID: 19580576 DOI: 10.1111/j.1529-8019.2009.01244.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Hard and soft ticks may be associated directly or indirectly with a number of dermatoses, both infectious and inflammatory in origin. Morbidity may occur as a result of tick bites, tick toxicosis, and even infestation. These arthropod vectors may transmit life-threatening protozoan, bacterial, rickettsial, and viral diseases with systemic and cutaneous findings. Additionally, ticks may transmit more than one pathogen with subsequent human coinfection. This article reviews the presentation of tick-borne illnesses and the medical management of these diseases. Among others, diseases such as ehrlichiosis, anaplasmosis, babesiosis, tularemia, borrelioses, tick-borne encephalitides, rickettsial spotted fevers, and tick typhus are discussed in this article. The recognition of skin manifestations associated with these diseases is paramount to early diagnosis and treatment initiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali N Dana
- Department of Dermatology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.
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22
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Romdhane FB, Loussaief C, Toumi A, Yahia SB, Khaiyrallah M, Bouzouaïa N, Chakroun M. Mediterranean spotted fever: a report of 200 cases in Tunisia. Clin Microbiol Infect 2009; 15 Suppl 2:209-10. [PMID: 19456798 DOI: 10.1111/j.1469-0691.2008.02280.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- F B Romdhane
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Fattouma Bourguiba University Hospital, Monastir, Tunisia.
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23
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Dobler G, Wölfel R. Typhus and other rickettsioses: emerging infections in Germany. DEUTSCHES ARZTEBLATT INTERNATIONAL 2009; 106:348-54. [PMID: 19547738 DOI: 10.3238/arztebl.2009.0348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2008] [Accepted: 01/14/2009] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rickettsioses are diseases caused by rickettsiae, obligate intracellular bacteria that are transmitted by arthropods to humans. They cause various types of spotted fever and typhus. METHODS A review of the literature is presented along with the authors' own findings. RESULTS Six indigenous species of rickettsiae have been found in Germany to date, five of which have been described as human pathogens in other countries. Rickettsia slovaca causes tick-borne lymphadenitis (TIBOLA). Rickettsia helvetica is a known pathogen of nonspecific fever; its role in endocarditis is still under investigation. Rickettsia felis causes so-called flea-borne spotted fever. Rickettsia monacensis and Rickettsia massiliae were recently shown to cause the classical form of tick-borne spotted fever. The sixth indigenous species in Germany, Rickettsia sp. RpA4, has not yet been associated with any human disease. The most important rickettsioses imported to Germany by travelers are African tick bite fever and Mediterranean spotted fever. CONCLUSIONS Modern molecular biological techniques have enabled the detection of a number of rickettsial species in Germany. The medical importance of these illnesses in Germany remains to be determined. In travel medicine, imported rickettsioses play a role that should not be underestimated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerhard Dobler
- Institut für Mikrobiologie der Bundeswehr, München, Germany.
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25
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26
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE To describe the epidemiologic and clinical aspects of patients with tick-borne lymphadenopathy (TIBOLA). PATIENTS AND METHODS The study included all patients treated in our hospital who presented characteristic clinical signs of TIBOLA consisting in the presence of an inoculation lesion after a tick bite with regional lymphadenopathies. The study was carried out at the "Corporació Parc Taulí" hospital in the city of Sabadell, Barcelona, Spain. The inclusion period was from April 2000 to April 2006. Serology tests were performed for Rickettsia conorii, R. slovaca, and Borrelia burgdorferi. The presence of Rickettsia was assessed by means of polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) and linear-after-the exponential-PCR in blood, skin biopsy, and ticks from the patients. RESULTS Thirty-six patients fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Twenty-eight patients were children. In most cases, infection occurred between the months of October and April. In 34 patients the tick bite was on the scalp. A necrotic eschar surrounded by a perilesional erythematous halo was observed in 29 cases. All patients had painful regional lymphadenopathies. Serology for R. conorii was positive in 8 cases and for R. slovaca in 2. PCR was negative. The tick, identified as Dermacentor marginatus, was studied in 7 patients. Four of the 7 D. marginatus were positive for sequences compatible with R. slovoca as determined by RFLP or DNA sequencing. Thirty-three patients received antibiotic treatment. Progress was satisfactory in all cases. CONCLUSIONS TIBOLA is present in Catalonia (Northeastern Spain) mainly in children. Although clinical and epidemiologic manifestations are very specific microbiologic confirmation is difficult.
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27
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Schuster J, Tantcheva-Poor I, Wickenhauser C, Chemnitz JM, Hunzelmann N, Krieg T, Hartmann K. African tick bite fever – Papulovesicular exanthem with fever after staying in South Africa. J Dtsch Dermatol Ges 2008; 6:379-81. [PMID: 18021248 DOI: 10.1111/j.1610-0387.2007.006435.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jan Schuster
- Department of Dermatology, University of Cologne, Germany
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28
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Castelli F, Capone S, Pedruzzi B, Matteelli A. Antimicrobial prevention and therapy for travelers' infection. Expert Rev Anti Infect Ther 2008; 5:1031-48. [PMID: 18039086 DOI: 10.1586/14787210.5.6.1031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
International journeys are increasing and more than 70 million people from industrialized countries cross the borders of tropical countries every year. More than 50% of them will suffer from some form of infectious illness, ranging from mild travelers' diarrhea to severe dengue fever to fatal malaria, with a wide spectrum of microbiological entities. Travel-related respiratory infections, including TB, and sexually transmitted infections are also increasingly reported. Awareness of travel-related risk is not always adequate among international travelers. Specific training on travel medicine-related issues, as well as better diagnostic facilities for imported diseases, is crucial for physicians and nurses in industrialized countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Castelli
- University of Brescia, Unit for Tropical and Imported Diseases, Spedali Civili General Hospital, Piazza Spedali Civili, 1 25123 Brescia, Italy.
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29
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Kafetzis DA, Chantzi F, Tigani G, Skevaki CL. Safety and tolerability of clarithromycin administered to children at higher-than-recommended doses. Eur J Clin Microbiol Infect Dis 2007; 26:99-103. [PMID: 17216420 DOI: 10.1007/s10096-006-0247-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
A tendency among pediatricians in Greece to use higher-than-recommended doses of clarithromycin was noted over several years, prompting this study of the safety and tolerability of this macrolide in 343 children over a period of 9 months. The study group comprised nonhospitalized patients of 29 pediatricians practicing in Athens. All were prescribed clarithromycin for upper respiratory (n = 257) or lower respiratory tract infection (n = 78). Overall, 77.8% were treated with doses that exceeded the recommended dose of 15 mg/kg/day, and 26% received doses of > or = 30 mg/kg/day (median dose, 20 mg/kg/day). The tolerability of clarithromycin was judged as "very good" in 75% of the children, as "good" in 16%, and as "moderate" in 5%, whereas intolerability was observed in 4% of the cases. Adverse reactions, mainly gastrointestinal in nature, were reported in 17.5% of the cases. With regard to both tolerability and adverse events recorded, there were no statistically significant differences between the group of patients who received the recommended dose and the group who received higher doses. Clarithromycin continues to present a safe and well-tolerated profile for the treatment of common pediatric infections, even when administered at higher-than-recommended doses. Whether it is more efficacious in this setting is a matter for further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- D A Kafetzis
- Second Department of Pediatrics, University of Athens, P. & A. Kyriakou Children's Hospital, Thivon & Levadeias St., Athens, 115 27, Greece.
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30
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Abstract
In recent years, a bewildering array of emerging rickettsial pathogens have been described throughout the world, including in the tropics. Here we present an updated overview of scrub typhus, murine typhus, and epidemic typhus. We also present an update on the emerging spotted fever group rickettsioses described in the tropics through 2005, focusing on epidemiologic and clinical data and management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philippe Parola
- Unité des Rickettsies CNRS UMR 6020, IFR48, WHO Collaborative Center for Rickettsial Reference and Research, Medicine School of Marseille, France
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31
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Colomba C, Saporito L, Polara VF, Rubino R, Titone L. Mediterranean spotted fever: clinical and laboratory characteristics of 415 Sicilian children. BMC Infect Dis 2006; 6:60. [PMID: 16553943 PMCID: PMC1435909 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2334-6-60] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2005] [Accepted: 03/22/2006] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mediterranean spotted fever (MSF) is an acute febrile, zoonotic disease caused by Rickettsia conorii and transmitted to humans by the brown dogtick Rhipicephalus sanguineus. Nearly four hundred cases are reported every year (mainly from June to September) on the Italian island of Sicily. The aim of the study was to analyze the clinical and laboratory characteristics of patients with MSF and the efficacy of the drugs administered. METHODS Our study was carried out on 415 children with MSF, during the period January 1997-December 2004, at the "G. Di Cristina" Children's hospital in Palermo, Sicily, Italy. On admission patients' clinical history, physical and laboratory examination and indirect immunofluorescence antibody test (IFAT) for Rickettsia conorii were performed. Diagnosis was considered confirmed if the patients had an MSF diagnostic score greater than or equal to 25 according to the Raoult's scoring system. All patients were treated with chloramphenicol or with macrolides (clarithromycin or azithromycin). RESULTS Fever, rash and tache noire were present in 386 (93%), 392 (94.5%) and 263 (63.4%) cases respectively. Eighteen (4.6%) children showed atypical exanthema. Chloramphenicol and newer macrolides all appeared to be effective and safe therapies. CONCLUSION Clinical features of 415 children with MSF were similar to those reported by other authors except for a lower incidence of headache, arthralgia and myalgia and a higher frequency of epato-splenomegaly. Concerning therapy, clarithromycin can be considered a valid alternative therapy to tetracyclines or chloramphenicol especially for children aged < eight years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Colomba
- Istituto di Patologia Infettiva e Virologia, Università di Palermo, Piazza Montalto 8, 90134 Palermo, Italy
| | - Laura Saporito
- Istituto di Patologia Infettiva e Virologia, Università di Palermo, Piazza Montalto 8, 90134 Palermo, Italy
| | - Valentina Frasca Polara
- Istituto di Patologia Infettiva e Virologia, Università di Palermo, Piazza Montalto 8, 90134 Palermo, Italy
| | - Raffaella Rubino
- Istituto di Patologia Infettiva e Virologia, Università di Palermo, Piazza Montalto 8, 90134 Palermo, Italy
| | - Lucina Titone
- Istituto di Patologia Infettiva e Virologia, Università di Palermo, Piazza Montalto 8, 90134 Palermo, Italy
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Wu JJ, Huang DB, Pang KR, Tyring SK. Rickettsial infections around the world, part 1: pathophysiology and the spotted fever group. J Cutan Med Surg 2006; 9:54-62. [PMID: 16392014 DOI: 10.1007/s10227-005-0133-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The rickettsial diseases are an important group of infectious agents that have dermatological manifestations. These diseases are important to consider in endemic areas, but in certain suspicious cases, possible acts of bioterrorism should warrant prompt notification of the appropriate authorities. OBJECTIVE In this two part review article, we review these diverse diseases by examining established and up-to-date information about the pathophysiology, epidemiology, clinical manifestations, and treatment of the ricksettsiae. METHODS Using PubMed to search for relevant articles, we browsed over 500 articles to compose a clinically based review article. RESULTS Part one focuses on pathophysiology of the rickettsial diseases and the clinical aspects of the spotted fever group. CONCLUSIONS At the completion of part one of this learning activity, participants should be able to discuss all of the clinical manifestations and treatments of the sported fever group. Participants should also be familiar with the pathophysiology of the rickettsial diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jashin J Wu
- Department of Dermatology, University of California, Irvine, California, USA
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33
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Buckingham SC. Tick-borne infections in children: epidemiology, clinical manifestations, and optimal management strategies. Paediatr Drugs 2005; 7:163-76. [PMID: 15977962 DOI: 10.2165/00148581-200507030-00003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Ticks can transmit bacterial, protozoal, and viral infections to humans. Specific therapy is available for several of these infections. Doxycycline is the antimicrobial treatment of choice for all patients, regardless of age, with Rocky Mountain spotted fever, human monocytic ehrlichiosis, or human granulocytic ehrlichiosis. Chloramphenicol has been used to treat these infections in children but is demonstrably inferior to doxycycline. In patients with Mediterranean spotted fever, doxycycline, chloramphenicol, and newer macrolides all appear to be effective therapies. Therapy of Lyme disease depends on the age of the child and stage of the disease. For early localized disease, amoxicillin (for those aged <8 years) or doxycycline (for those aged >/=8 years) is effective. Doxycycline, penicillin V (phenoxymethylpenicillin) or penicillin G (benzylpenicillin) preparations, and erythromycin are all effective treatments for tick-borne relapsing fever. Hospitalized patients with tularemia should receive gentamicin or streptomycin. Doxycycline and ciprofloxacin have each been investigated for the treatment of tularemia in outpatients; however, these agents do not yet have established roles in the treatment of this disease in children. Combination therapy with clindamycin and quinine is preferred for children with babesiosis; the combination of azithromycin and atovaquone also appears promising. Ribavirin has been recently shown to markedly improve survival in patients with Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever. The role of antiviral therapy in the treatment of other tick-borne viral infections, including other hemorrhagic fevers and tick-borne encephalitis, is not yet defined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven C Buckingham
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Infectious Disease, University of Tennessee Health Science Center and Children's Foundation Research Center at Le Bonheur Children's Medical Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA.
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34
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Parola P, Paddock CD, Raoult D. Tick-borne rickettsioses around the world: emerging diseases challenging old concepts. Clin Microbiol Rev 2005; 18:719-56. [PMID: 16223955 PMCID: PMC1265907 DOI: 10.1128/cmr.18.4.719-756.2005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 716] [Impact Index Per Article: 37.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
During most of the 20th century, the epidemiology of tick-borne rickettsioses could be summarized as the occurrence of a single pathogenic rickettsia on each continent. An element of this paradigm suggested that the many other characterized and noncharacterized rickettsiae isolated from ticks were not pathogenic to humans. In this context, it was considered that relatively few tick-borne rickettsiae caused human disease. This concept was modified extensively from 1984 through 2005 by the identification of at least 11 additional rickettsial species or subspecies that cause tick-borne rickettsioses around the world. Of these agents, seven were initially isolated from ticks, often years or decades before a definitive association with human disease was established. We present here the tick-borne rickettsioses described through 2005 and focus on the epidemiological circumstances that have played a role in the emergence of the newly recognized diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philippe Parola
- Unité des Rickettsies, CNRS UMR 6020, IFR 48, Université de la Méditerranée, Faculté de Médecine, 13385 Marseille Cedex 5, France
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35
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Wu JJ, Huang DB, Pang KR, Tyring SK. Rickettsial Infections around the World, Part 1: Pathophysiology and the Spotted Fever Group. J Cutan Med Surg 2005. [DOI: 10.1177/120347540500900203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Background: The rickettsial diseases are an important group of infectious agents that have dermatological manifestations. These diseases are important to consider in endemic areas, but in certain suspicious cases, possible acts of bioterrorism should warrant prompt notification of the appropriate authorities. Objective: In this two part review article, we review these diverse diseases by examining established and up-to-date information about the pathophysiology, epidemiology, clinical manifestations, and treatment of the ricksettsiae. Methods: Using PubMed to search for relevant articles, we browsed over 500 articles to compose a clinically based review article. Results: Part one focuses on pathophysiology of the rickettsial diseases and the clinical aspects of the spotted fever group. Conclusions: At the completion of part one of this learning activity, participants should be able to discuss all of the clinical manifestations and treatments of the sported fever group. Participants should also be familiar with the pathophysiology of the rickettsial diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jashin J. Wu
- Department of Dermatology, University of California, Irvine, California, USA
| | - David B. Huang
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Katie R. Pang
- Department of Dermatology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, Texas, USA
| | - Stephen K. Tyring
- Department of Dermatology, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houstan, Texas, USA
- Center for Clinical Studies, Houston, Texas, USA
- Center for Clinical Studies, 2060 Space Park Drive, Suite 200, Houston, TX, 77058, USA
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36
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Alioua Z, Bourazza A, Lamsyah H, Erragragui Y, Boudi O, Karouach K, Ghfir M, Mossedaq R, Sedrati O. [Neurological feature of Mediterranean spotted fever: a study of four cases]. Rev Med Interne 2004; 24:824-9. [PMID: 14656643 DOI: 10.1016/j.revmed.2003.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rickettsia conorii is the etiologic agent of Mediterranean spotted fever that is endemic in Mediterranean. EXEGESIS We report four cases of serious form of Mediterranean spotted fever with neurological feature. Two of them 56 and 62 years old had meningoencephalitis. Two others had cerebellitis, they are aged 43 and 56. The course has been favourable with ciprofloxacin. CONCLUSION It is a benign well-known illness in spite of apparition of severe visceral complications, which can drag the death in 2.5% of cases. Neurological feature is more frequent and present in 28% of cases. Precocious treatment prevents this unfavourable evolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Z Alioua
- Service de dermatologie, hôpital militaire d'instruction Mohammed V, BP 1018, Rabat, Maroc.
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