Clinical characteristics and risk factors for severe scrub typhus in pediatric and elderly patients

Two complicated cases of severe scrub typhus, eschar- a non-negligible sign: Case reports and literature review

RATIONALE

Scrub typhus is a mite-borne, acute febrile disease caused by Orientia tsutsugamushi. The endemic areas of scrub typhus are expanding, both globally and in China. Patients who are not treated promptly, are likely to die of multiple organ dysfunction syndrome.

PATIENT CONCERNS

Case I A 61-year-old female patient complained of sudden chest tightness and shortness of breath accompanied by fever for 6 days. Case II A 54-year-old male patient complained of fever and cough for 4 days and renal insufficiency for 2 days.

DIAGNOSES

Scrub typhus, multiple organ dysfunction syndrome.

INTERVENTIONS

After the definite diagnosis, both patients were treated with doxycycline and various organ supports.

OUTCOMES

The patient in case I was ultimately not salvageable. The patient in case II was successfully cured by the prompt administration of doxycycline along with continuous renal replacement therapy.

LESSONS

With early diagnosis and treatment, patients can completely recover. Eschar, a characteristic sign of scrub typhus, is often overlooked, leading to delayed diagnosis and regrettable outcomes.