Diseases
rickettsial infections
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Overview
Rickettsial infections and related infections (such as anaplasmosis, ehrlichiosis, and Q fever) are caused by an unusual type of bacteria that can live only inside the cells of another organism. Most of these infections are spread through ticks, mites, fleas, or lice.
Symptoms
- a fever, severe headache, and usually a rash develop, and people feel generally
- a characteristic rash
- a general feeling of illness (malaise)
Causes
- most rickettsial organisms are transmitted by the bites or infectious fluids (such as feces) inoculated into the skins from ectoparasites such as fleas, lice, mites, and ticks.
Risk factors
- exposure to human body lice.
- exposure to rodents (rats and mice) and their fleas.
- tick bites.
Diagnosis
- blood test.
- physical exam.
- biopsy
Medicines used
Frequently asked questions
What is rickettsial infections?
Rickettsial infections and related infections (such as anaplasmosis, ehrlichiosis, and Q fever) are caused by an unusual type of bacteria that can live only inside the cells of another organism. Most of these infections are spread through ticks, mites, fleas, or lice.
What are the symptoms of rickettsial infections?
a fever, severe headache, and usually a rash develop, and people feel generally, a characteristic rash, a general feeling of illness (malaise)
What causes rickettsial infections?
most rickettsial organisms are transmitted by the bites or infectious fluids (such as feces) inoculated into the skins from ectoparasites such as fleas, lice, mites, and ticks.
Which medicines are used for rickettsial infections?
doxycycline
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