Publication
Title
Diversity of life-threatening complications due to mediterranean spotted fever in returning travelers
Author
Abstract
Methods. We report on three patients who developed severe MSF complications after a stay in Morocco. Literature was reviewed to assess the frequency and pattern of MSF complications in the largest reported case series in endemic countries. Results. Each of our three patients diagnosed with MSF presented with a different complicated course: one with meningoencephalitis, one with lung embolism and one with septic shock and multi organ failure. In published series, rate of complications (defined as severe organ involvement) ranged from 1% to 20%. However, study designs and settings were highly variable and did not allow for relevant comparisons. Meningoencephalitis and shock with multi organ failure were the most frequently observed complications. Mortality of severe course was up to 20% in some series. Conclusion. Severe organ involvement is not infrequent in patients with Mediterranean spotted fever and fatal outcome is regularly reported. Because presentations of complicated course may be extremely diverse, a high index of suspicion is required in febrile patients with potential exposure, in particular if skin rash and/or eschar are found. Early appropriate antibiotherapy is crucial to improve outcome.
Language
English
Source (journal)
Journal of travel medicine. - Hamilton, 1994, currens
Publication
Hamilton : 2010
ISSN
1195-1982 [print]
1708-8305 [online]
DOI
10.1111/J.1708-8305.2009.00391.X
Volume/pages
17 :2 (2010) , p. 100-104
ISI
000275106600005
Full text (Publisher's DOI)
UAntwerpen
Faculty/Department
Publication type
Subject
Affiliation
Publications with a UAntwerp address
External links
Web of Science
Record
Identifier
Creation 01.03.2012
Last edited 04.03.2024
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