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Shingu M, Fujishima C, Hara S, Nishioka H. Japanese spotted fever complicated by acute sensorineural hearing loss. J Infect Chemother 2024; 30:1175-1178. [PMID: 38599283 DOI: 10.1016/j.jiac.2024.03.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2024] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 03/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
Japanese spotted fever is an emerging rickettsiosis caused by Rickettsia japonica and is characterized by high fever, rash, and eschar formation. Other symptoms are often vague and nonspecific and include headaches, nausea, vomiting, and myalgia. We present a case of a 46-year-old woman with Japanese spotted fever, complicated by transient bilateral sensorineural hearing loss and presenting cutaneous IgM/IgG immune complex vasculitis. The patient was admitted with a history of several days of high fever, generalized skin erythema, and hearing impairment. Laboratory findings revealed thrombocytopenia and elevated liver enzyme and C-reactive protein levels. Pure-tone audiometry revealed bilateral sensorineural hearing loss, and a skin biopsy revealed leukocytoclastic vasculitis with deposition of C3 and IgM on the vessel walls. Under the tentative diagnosis of rickettsiosis, scrub typhus, or Japanese spotted fever, the patient was treated with minocycline, and her symptoms improved within approximately 10 days. A definitive diagnosis was made on the basis of a serological test showing increased antibody levels against Rickettsia japonica. Japanese spotted fever can cause transient sensorineural hearing loss, a rare complication that presents with cutaneous IgM/IgG immune complex vasculitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Motohiro Shingu
- Department of General Internal Medicine, Kobe City Medical Center General Hospital, 2-1-1 Minami-machi, Minatojima, Chuo-ku, Kobe City, Hyogo, 650-0047, Japan
| | - Chieko Fujishima
- Department of Dermatology, Kobe City Medical Center General Hospital, 2-1-1 Minami-machi, Minatojima, Chuo-ku, Kobe City, Hyogo, 650-0047, Japan
| | - Shigeo Hara
- Department of Pathology, Kobe City Medical Center General Hospital, 2-1-1 Minami-machi, Minatojima, Chuo-ku, Kobe City, Hyogo, 650-0047, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Nishioka
- Department of General Internal Medicine, Kobe City Medical Center General Hospital, 2-1-1 Minami-machi, Minatojima, Chuo-ku, Kobe City, Hyogo, 650-0047, Japan.
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Bhattacharjee S, Debbarma B, Debbarma RK, Das G. Scrub Typhus Presenting as Bilateral Sixth Nerve Palsy. Cureus 2024; 16:e56692. [PMID: 38646216 PMCID: PMC11032509 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.56692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Scrub typhus, a tropical rickettsial infection, can have various neurological manifestations. Here, we present the case of an otherwise healthy 19-year-old female who presented to the emergency department with fever, headache, and diplopia. On examination, she was found to have bilateral sixth nerve palsy and bilateral papilledema. Initial unenhanced CT of the brain and CT venogram were unremarkable. The cerebrospinal fluid study was normal. Later, bloodwork revealed high titers of Orientia tsutsugamushi antibody. A thorough physical examination revealed no evidence of any eschar. She was treated with doxycycline and had significant clinical improvement with partial recovery of bilateral lateral rectus function. We want to highlight the importance of maintaining a high index of suspicion for atypical neurological presentations of scrub typhus.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Bibhu Debbarma
- Internal Medicine, Agartala Government Medical College, Agartala, IND
| | - Rajesh K Debbarma
- Internal Medicine, Agartala Government Medical College, Agartala, IND
| | - Gourab Das
- Internal Medicine, Agartala Government Medical College, Agartala, IND
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Goonetilleke A, Silva S. Case report of scrub typhus with bilateral acute sensorineural hearing loss and cerebral salt-wasting disease. Trop Doct 2024; 54:69-71. [PMID: 37671547 DOI: 10.1177/00494755231195933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/07/2023]
Abstract
Scrub typhus is a re-emerging and endemic disease in the Asia Pacific region caused by Orientia tsutsugamushi. We present a 65-year-old male from Sri Lanka who presented with fever, bilateral acute sensorineural hearing loss, and confusion. On examination, he was dehydrated. Significant orthostatic hypotension and an eschar were noted. Investigations revealed hyponatraemia with elevated urine sodium, reduced serum osmolality, and normal urine osmolality suggestive of cerebral salt wasting. After initial hydration with 0.9% NaCl, hyponatraemia was corrected with 3% NaCl. Oral doxycycline was prescribed, and he showed dramatic clinical improvement. A diagnosis of typhus must be considered in a patient presenting with a febrile illness and acute hearing loss. Cerebral salt-wasting disease should be considered in a patient with typhus who develops hyponatraemia with dehydration. Furthermore, acute sensorineural hearing loss in both ears is an important manifestation of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asitha Goonetilleke
- Registrar, University Medical Unit, Colombo South Teaching Hospital, Kalubowila-Dehiwala, Sri Lanka
| | - Shehan Silva
- Registrar, University Medical Unit, Colombo South Teaching Hospital, Kalubowila-Dehiwala, Sri Lanka
- Consultant Physician & Senior Lecturer, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Nugegoda, Sri Lanka
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Lamichhane S, Achhami E, Mahaju S, Gautam R, Adhikari A. A case of acute encephalitis syndrome and cranial nerve palsy secondary to scrub typhus: A rare presentation from Western Nepal. Clin Case Rep 2023; 11:e7376. [PMID: 37215963 PMCID: PMC10196419 DOI: 10.1002/ccr3.7376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Revised: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Key Clinical Message This case report highlights the importance of considering scrub typhus as a differential diagnosis for acute encephalitis with cranial nerve palsy in the region of the tsutsugamushi triangle. Abstract Scrub typhus is a zoonotic rickettsiosis caused by the bacterium Orientia tsutsugamushi. This disease is endemic to a region called the tsutsugamushi triangle that extends from Southeast Asia to the Pacific Ocean. We report a 17-year-old girl from western Nepal who presented with fever, headache, vomiting, and altered sensorium, as well as bilateral lateral rectus palsy, dysphagia, regurgitation of food, dysarthria, and left-sided upper motor neuron type facial palsy. Following laboratory and imaging tests, the patient was diagnosed with scrub typhus and was treated successfully with high-dose dexamethasone and doxycycline. This case highlights the importance of considering scrub typhus in the differential diagnosis of encephalitis with cranial nerve palsy, especially in the region of the tsutsugamushi triangle. It also emphasizes the need for timely diagnosis and treatment of scrub typhus to prevent the development of various complications and ensure earlier recovery of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Eliz Achhami
- Sukraraj Tropical & Infectious Disease HospitalKathmanduNepal
| | - Satyam Mahaju
- Sukraraj Tropical & Infectious Disease HospitalKathmanduNepal
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Kalita IR, Veena K, Mouttappa F, Sundaralakshmi P, Singh HV. Clinical profile and management of sixth nerve palsy in pediatric patients (0-15 years) in Southern India - A hospital-based study. Indian J Ophthalmol 2022; 70:952-957. [PMID: 35225549 PMCID: PMC9114572 DOI: 10.4103/ijo.ijo_2211_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This study was done to evaluate the clinical profile in pediatric patients (0-16 years) presenting with acute onset esotropia due to sixth nerve palsy and its management options in a tertiary care set up of Southern India. METHODS A total of 12 patients presenting to our OPD with acute onset esotropia due to sixth nerve palsies were included in this retrospective study. All patients were observed for 6 months and managed with prism and/or patching while waiting for spontaneous resolution and later managed surgically. Neuroimaging was done in all cases. RESULTS The mean deviation of esotropia at presentation was 30.17 ± 5.7 Prism Diopter (range 12-50 Prism Diopter 95% CI, SD 10.11). Mean age of the patients during presentation was 8.6 ± 2.4 years (range: 1-15 years, SD 4.27). Among the common causes of sixth nerve palsy in our study population were trauma and idiopathic intracranial hypertension followed by tumor and miscellaneous causes. Only three patients underwent surgical correction of residual deviation after a waiting period of 6 months for self-resolution. Spontaneous resolution was observed in 41.6% patients, and surgical correction (unilateral resection-recession) was done in 25% of the patients with good surgical outcome. CONCLUSION At 1-year follow up, the motor outcome was satisfactory except for one patient who had diffuse pontine glioma and had worsening neurological symptoms on follow-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iva Rani Kalita
- Department of Paediatric and Strabismus, Aravind Eye Hospital, Pondicherry, India
| | - K Veena
- Department of Paediatric and Strabismus, Aravind Eye Hospital, Pondicherry, India
| | - Fredrick Mouttappa
- Department of Paediatric and Strabismus, Aravind Eye Hospital, Pondicherry, India
| | - Priya Sundaralakshmi
- Department of Neurophthalmology and Low Vision Services, Aravind Eye Hospital, Pondicherry, India
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Jatsho J. An unusual presentation of scrub typhus in a child: a case report. BMC Pediatr 2022; 22:77. [PMID: 35114958 PMCID: PMC8812046 DOI: 10.1186/s12887-022-03139-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Scrub Typhus (ST) is an acute, febrile zoonotic disease caused by the bacterium Orientia tsutsugamushi which is endemic to the Asia-Pacific region. Infected adults rarely present with sensorineural hearing loss and otalgia. Though few cases of pediatric cases are known to present with otalgia, no pediatric cases of sensorineural deafness complicating ST have been reported to date. Case presentation A 5-year-old, previously healthy girl presented with a one-week history of high-grade intermittent fever, Headache and right ear pain with a recent onset of reduced hearing. She had a fever up to 39 °C, cervical lymphadenopathy, bilateral pleural effusion with diffuse infiltrations, and mild hepatosplenomegaly with no evidence of rash. Her initial examination was normal except for mildly enlarged tonsils. Unilateral right ear hearing loss was noted using Weber’s test. Evidence of progressive, mild anemia, and raised inflammatory markers was noted. Diagnosis of scrub typhus was confirmed by positive detection of Orentia tsutsugamushi IgM antibodies on rapid diagnostic test and the presence of chigger mite in the right external auditory canal on repeat examination. She responded dramatically to the empirical treatment of ceftriaxone and doxycycline. On follow-up, she did not have any residual hearing loss and her ear pain had resolved completely. Conclusion Acute onset hearing loss or severe otalgia with or without findings should be an important diagnostic clue for suspecting scrub typhus in patients who present with a history of fever especially in endemic areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jimba Jatsho
- Department of Pediatrics, Phuentsholing Hospital, Ministry of Health, Phuentsholing, Bhutan.
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Tshering S, Dorji N, Dem D, Om T. Scrub typhus in pregnancy presenting with permanent hearing loss: A case report. Clin Case Rep 2021; 9:e04451. [PMID: 34306685 PMCID: PMC8294048 DOI: 10.1002/ccr3.4451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Revised: 05/02/2021] [Accepted: 05/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
As clinicians, we need to be vigilant about these rare and atypical presentations given the endemic nature of scrub typhus in southern belt of the country. Timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment is the key aspect to prevent further complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sangay Tshering
- Department of Obstetrics & GynecologyJigme Dorji Wangchuck National Referral HospitalThimphuBhutan
| | - Namkha Dorji
- Department of Obstetrics & GynecologyJigme Dorji Wangchuck National Referral HospitalThimphuBhutan
| | - Dago Dem
- Faculty of Post Graduate MedicineKhesar Gyalpo University of Medical Sciences of BhutanThimphuBhutan
| | - Tandin Om
- Faculty of Post Graduate MedicineKhesar Gyalpo University of Medical Sciences of BhutanThimphuBhutan
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Seroprevalence and Clinical Features of Scrub Typhus among Febrile Patients Attending a Referral Hospital in Kathmandu, Nepal. Trop Med Infect Dis 2021; 6:tropicalmed6020078. [PMID: 34068402 PMCID: PMC8163188 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed6020078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2021] [Revised: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Scrub typhus (ST) is endemic to Nepal. It is often underdiagnosed and misdiagnosed due to non-specific clinical presentation coupled with limited microbiological facilities, leading to adverse clinical outcomes. This study aimed to assess the seroprevalence of scrub typhus in febrile patients attending Sukraraj Tropical and Infectious Disease Hospital (STIDH), Nepal, from August 2018 to April 2019. (2) Materials and Method: Blood/serum samples and clinical and demographic data of adult febrile patients (≥19 years) who attended or were referred to the hospital were collected after obtaining written informed consent from the participants excluding immunocompromised individuals. Collected blood/serum samples were subjected to hematological, biochemical, and serological tests. A serological test for scrub typhus was performed using the ImmuneMed scrub typhus rapid diagnostic test kit. Data generated were analyzed using SPSS software version 24.0. (3) Results: Amongst the 2070 febrile patients, 462 (22.3%) were seropositive to at least one etiological agent of febrile illnesses (scrub typhus: 253 cases, dengue: 101 cases, leptospirosis: 9, brucellosis: 52, malaria: 9 and kala-azar: 20 cases). Scrub typhus accounted for 12.2% (n = 253) of total febrile illnesses followed by dengue (4.9%, n = 101). Mixed seropositivity of scrub typhus with dengue, brucellosis, and typhoid was found in 12 (0.6%), 9 (0.4%), and 5 (0.2%) cases, respectively. Among 253 scrub typhus patients, 53.4% were female. Among the 154 patients, the most common symptoms were fever (100%), headache (79.2%), sweating (70.1%), breathing difficulty (51.3%), redness of the eye (43.5%), and pathognomonic eschar was observed in 9.1% patients. Fifty percent of scrub typhus patients had low platelet count and >30% of patients had an elevated level of liver enzymes (such as serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase (SGPT) and serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase (SGOT). (4) Conclusion: Scrub typhus is a considerable cause of febrile illness in Nepal. Females apparently have a higher chance of acquiring scrub typhus. ST presents nonspecific clinical presentation. The diagnostic dilemma of typhus patients can be minimized by the early monitoring of ST-associated symptoms. The country's health system needs to be strengthened for early outbreak detection, and immediate response actions against scrub typhus to control the future outbreak of ST.
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Garg D, Manesh A. Neurological facets of scrub typhus: A comprehensive narrative review. Ann Indian Acad Neurol 2021; 24:849-864. [PMID: 35359522 PMCID: PMC8965938 DOI: 10.4103/aian.aian_739_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2021] [Revised: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 10/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Scrub typhus is one of the most frequent causes of acute febrile illness in South and South-east Asian countries. Neurological features accompany 20% of scrub typhus infections, and may affect the central or peripheral nervous system, and sometime, may even occur in combination. Of late, its recognition among clinicians has increased with widening detection of its cutaneous hallmark, called eschar. Multiple mechanisms underlie neurological involvement, including direct invasion (meningitis, encephalitis), vasculitis (myositis) or immune-mediated mechanisms (opsoclonus, myoclonus, optic neuritis, Guillain–Barre syndrome). Despite an immunological basis for several neurological manifestations, response to doxycycline is remarkable, although immune therapy may be necessary for severe involvement. Scientific literature on scrub typhus neurology chiefly emanates from case reports, case series and small studies, and a comprehensive review is warranted to aid clinicians in recognising neurological involvement. This review aims at enriching this gap, and summarises clinical features, laboratory findings, and treatment options for various neurological facets of scrub typhus.
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Patnaik S, Parida P, Agrawal A, Biswal S, Behera C. Scrub typhus meningoencephalitis in children: A single centre, observational study from Eastern India. JOURNAL OF PEDIATRIC CRITICAL CARE 2021. [DOI: 10.4103/jpcc.jpcc_74_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
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Gaba S, Garg S, Gupta M, Gupta R. Haemorrhagic encephalitis in the garb of scrub typhus. BMJ Case Rep 2020; 13:13/8/e235790. [PMID: 32859623 DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2020-235790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
A 19-year-old girl presented with fever, headache, vomiting and drowsiness. She had grade 1 papilloedema and neck rigidity but no focal deficits or seizures. Cerebrospinal fluid analysis revealed lymphocytic pleocytosis, slightly elevated protein and normal glucose. MRI of the brain showed a hyperintense lesion in left ganglio-capsular region on the fluid attenuation inversion recovery sequence with perilesional oedema and mild midline shift. Haemorrhage was seen in the region on susceptibility weighted imaging . The patient was thoroughly investigated for known causes of meningoencephalitis, but the diagnosis of scrub typhus was delayed till the 10th day of illness. She was treated with doxycycline for 2 weeks and had marked improvement, both clinically and radiologically. Literature review has revealed that although meningoencephalitis in scrub typhus is not uncommon, such atypical lesions on brain MRI are a rarity. Serial imaging was performed to document the disease progression and resolution on treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saurabh Gaba
- Department of General Medicine, Government Medical College and Hospital, Chandigarh, India
| | - Swati Garg
- Department of General Medicine, Government Medical College and Hospital, Chandigarh, India
| | - Monica Gupta
- Department of General Medicine, Government Medical College and Hospital, Chandigarh, India
| | - Rekha Gupta
- Department of Radiodiagnosis, Government Medical College and Hospital, Chandigarh, India
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Rajapakse S, Weeratunga P, Sivayoganathan S, Fernando SD. Clinical manifestations of scrub typhus. Trans R Soc Trop Med Hyg 2018; 111:43-54. [PMID: 28449088 DOI: 10.1093/trstmh/trx017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2016] [Accepted: 04/11/2017] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The mite-borne rickettsial zoonosis scrub typhus is widely prevalent in parts of Southeast and Far East Asia, and northern Australia. The disease is an acute febrile illness, associated with rash and often an eschar, which responds dramatically to treatment with antibiotics. In some cases it results in a serious illness leading to multiple organ involvement and death. The disease manifestations are thought to result from a systemic vasculitis, caused by both direct effects of the organisms as well as an exaggerated immune response, although little is understood about its pathogenesis. A wide spectrum of clinical manifestations, affecting nearly every organ system, have been described with scrub typhus. Some of these manifestations are serious and life threatening. In this systematic review, we summarise the typical and atypical manifestations of scrub typhus reported in the literature. Awareness of these unusual manifestations will hopefully guide clinicians towards diagnosing the condition early, and initiating early appropriate antibiotics and other supportive measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Senaka Rajapakse
- Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo, 25, Kynsey Road, Colombo 08, Sri Lanka
| | - Praveen Weeratunga
- University Medical Unit, National Hospital, Regent Street, Colombo 08, Sri Lanka
| | - Sriharan Sivayoganathan
- Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo, 25, Kynsey Road, Colombo 08, Sri Lanka
| | - Sumadhya Deepika Fernando
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo, 25, Kynsey Road, Colombo 08, Sri Lanka
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Ete T, Mishra J, Barman B, Mondal S, Sivam RKN. Scrub Typhus Presenting with Bilateral Lateral Rectus Palsy in A Female. J Clin Diagn Res 2016; 10:OD16-7. [PMID: 27190871 DOI: 10.7860/jcdr/2016/18177.7617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2015] [Accepted: 01/09/2016] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Scrub typhus, a rickettsial disease is endemic in several parts of India usually presenting with acute symptoms. Fever, maculopapular rash, eschar, history of tick exposure and supportive diagnostic tests usually leads to diagnosis. Scrub typhus should be included in the differential diagnosis in occasions when a patient presents with fever with or without eschar and isolated cranial nerve palsy. Here we are reporting a case of Scrub typhus who presented with fever and altered sensorium of short duration, eschar formation and bilateral lateral rectus palsy. Patient was treated with doxycycline with complete reversal of neurodeficit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tony Ete
- Senior Resident, Department of General Medicine, North Eastern Indira Gandhi Regional Institute of Health and Medical Sciences , Shillong, Meghalaya, India
| | - Jaya Mishra
- Associate Professor, Department of Pathology, North Eastern Indira Gandhi Regional Institute of Health and Medical Sciences , Shillong, Meghalaya, India
| | - Bhupen Barman
- Assistant Professor, Department of General Medicine, North Eastern Indira Gandhi Regional Institute of Health and Medical Sciences , Shillong, Meghalaya, India
| | - Sumantro Mondal
- Post Doctoral Trainee, Department of Rheumatology, Institute of Post Graduate Medical Education and Research , Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Rondeep Kumar Nath Sivam
- Senior Resident, Department of Cardiology, North Eastern Indira Gandhi Regional Institute of Health and Medical Sciences , Shillong, Meghalaya, India
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Jamil MD, Hussain M, Lyngdoh M, Sharma S, Barman B, Bhattacharya PK. Scrub typhus meningoencephalitis, a diagnostic challenge for clinicians: A hospital based study from North-East India. J Neurosci Rural Pract 2016; 6:488-93. [PMID: 26752890 PMCID: PMC4692003 DOI: 10.4103/0976-3147.169769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Central nervous system (CNS) involvement is a known complication of scrub typhus which range from mild meningitis to frank meninigoencephalitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- M D Jamil
- Department of Medicine, NEIGRIHMS, Shillong, Meghalaya, India
| | - Masaraf Hussain
- Department of Neurology, NEIGRIHMS, Shillong, Meghalaya, India
| | | | - Shriram Sharma
- Department of Neurology, NEIGRIHMS, Shillong, Meghalaya, India
| | - Bhupen Barman
- Department of Medicine, NEIGRIHMS, Shillong, Meghalaya, India
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Viswanathan S, Muthu V, Iqbal N, Remalayam B, George T. Scrub typhus meningitis in South India--a retrospective study. PLoS One 2013; 8:e66595. [PMID: 23799119 PMCID: PMC3682970 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0066595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2013] [Accepted: 05/08/2013] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Scrub typhus is prevalent in India although definite statistics are not available. There has been only one study on scrub typhus meningitis 20 years ago. Most reports of meningitis/meningoencephalitis in scrub typhus are case reports Methods A retrospective study done in Pondicherry to extract cases of scrub typhus admitted to hospital between February 2011 and January 2012. Diagnosis was by a combination of any one of the following in a patient with an acute febrile illness- a positive scrub IgM ELISA, Weil-Felix test, and an eschar. Lumbar puncture was performed in patients with headache, nuchal rigidity, altered sensorium or cranial nerve deficits. Results Sixty five cases of scrub typhus were found, and 17 (17/65) had meningitis. There were 33 males and 32 females. Thirteen had an eschar. Median cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) cell count, lymphocyte percentage, CSF protein, CSF glucose/blood glucose, CSF ADA were 54 cells/µL, 98%, 88 mg/dL, 0.622 and 3.5 U/mL respectively. Computed tomography was normal in patients with altered sensorium and cranial nerve deficits. Patients with meningitis had lesser respiratory symptoms and signs and higher urea levels. All patients had received doxycycline except one who additionally received chloramphenicol. Conclusion Meningitis in scrub typhus is mild with quick and complete recovery. Clinical features and CSF findings can mimic tuberculous meningitis, except for ADA levels. In the Indian context where both scrub typhus and tuberculosis are endemic, ADA and scrub IgM may be helpful in identifying patients with scrub meningitis and in avoiding prolonged empirical antituberculous therapy in cases of lymphocytic meningitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stalin Viswanathan
- Department of General Medicine, Indira Gandhi Medical College, Kathirkamam, Pondicherry, India.
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Gulati S, Maheshwari A. Dengue fever-like illnesses: how different are they from each other? ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012; 44:522-30. [PMID: 22506663 DOI: 10.3109/00365548.2012.669044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
In tropical countries and possibly elsewhere, dengue fever can be confused with other common tropical infections like enteric fever, leptospirosis, typhus fever, malaria, etc. Many of these illnesses can present in significant numbers after rains, and because of similar early presentations, can cause confusion in decision-making. With global warming, these diseases can assume significant proportions even in non-endemic areas. Identifying these illnesses in a non-immune returning traveller is equally challenging. Recognition of these diseases is important to diagnose them and treat them early, in order to avoid potentially fatal complications. This review is an attempt to highlight important clinical and laboratory differences among dengue fever-like illnesses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sameer Gulati
- Department of Internal Medicine, St Stephens Hospital, Tis Hazari, Delhi, India.
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Lee BJ, Chen CY, Hu SY, Tsan YT, Lin TC, Wang LM. Otalgia and eschar in the external auditory canal in scrub typhus complicated by acute respiratory distress syndrome and multiple organ failure. BMC Infect Dis 2011; 11:79. [PMID: 21450057 PMCID: PMC3079651 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2334-11-79] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2010] [Accepted: 03/30/2011] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Scrub typhus, a mite-transmitted zoonosis caused by Orientia tsutsugamushi, is an endemic disease in Taiwan and may be potentially fatal if diagnosis is delayed. Case presentations We encountered a 23-year-old previously healthy Taiwanese male soldier presenting with the right ear pain after training in the jungle and an eleven-day history of intermittent high fever up to 39°C. Amoxicillin/clavulanate was prescribed for otitis media at a local clinic. Skin rash over whole body and abdominal cramping pain with watery diarrhea appeared on the sixth day of fever. He was referred due to progressive dyspnea and cough for 4 days prior to admission in our institution. On physical examination, there were cardiopulmonary distress, icteric sclera, an eschar in the right external auditory canal and bilateral basal rales. Laboratory evaluation revealed thrombocytopenia, elevation of liver function and acute renal failure. Chest x-ray revealed bilateral diffuse infiltration. Doxycycline was prescribed for scrub typhus with acute respiratory distress syndrome and multiple organ failure. Fever subsided dramatically the next day and he was discharged on day 7 with oral tetracycline for 7 days. Conclusion Scrub typhus should be considered in acutely febrile patients with multiple organ involvement, particularly if there is an eschar or a history of environmental exposure in endemic areas. Rapid and accurate diagnosis, timely administration of antibiotics and intensive supportive care are necessary to decrease mortality of serious complications of scrub typhus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bor-Jen Lee
- Intensive Care Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung City, 00407, Taiwan
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Evoked response audiometry in scrub typhus: prospective, randomised, case-control study. The Journal of Laryngology & Otology 2011; 125:567-71. [PMID: 21371369 DOI: 10.1017/s0022215111000107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the hypothesis of cochlear and retrocochlear damage in scrub typhus, using evoked response audiometry. STUDY DESIGN Prospective, randomised, case-control study. METHODS The study included 25 patients with scrub typhus and 25 controls with other febrile illnesses not known to cause hearing loss. Controls were age- and sex-matched. All subjects underwent pure tone audiometry and evoked response audiometry before commencing treatment. RESULTS Six patients presented with hearing loss, although a total of 23 patients had evidence of symmetrical high frequency loss on pure tone audiometry. Evoked response audiometry found significant prolongation of absolute latencies of wave I, III, V, and wave I-III interpeak latency. Two cases with normal hearing had increased interpeak latencies. These findings constitute level 3b evidence. CONCLUSION Findings were suggestive of retrocochlear pathology in two cases with normal hearing. In other patients, high frequency hearing loss may have led to altered evoked response results. Although scrub typhus appears to cause middle ear cochlear and retrocochlear damage, the presence of such damage could not be fully confirmed by evoked response audiometry.
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Choi ES, Moon SJ, Kim HS, Lee KH. Case of Tsutsugamushi Disease With Anterior Uveitis. JOURNAL OF THE KOREAN OPHTHALMOLOGICAL SOCIETY 2010. [DOI: 10.3341/jkos.2010.51.10.1414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Eun Su Choi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Sungmo Eye Hospital, Busan, Korea
| | - Sang Jeong Moon
- Department of Ophthalmology, Sungmo Eye Hospital, Busan, Korea
| | - Ho Soong Kim
- Department of Ophthalmology, Sungmo Eye Hospital, Busan, Korea
| | - Kyung Hun Lee
- Department of Ophthalmology, Sungmo Eye Hospital, Busan, Korea
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong-Min Kim
- Division of Infectious Disease, Department of Internal Medicine, Chosun University School of Medicine, Gwang-ju, Korea
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