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Tick-borne relapsing fever during pregnancy: a case report
Jennifer N Guggenheim1, Albert D Haverkamp
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Exempla Saint Joseph Hospital, Denver, Colorado, USA. guggenheimj@exempla.org
The Journal of Reproductive Medicine
|December 21, 2005
Summary
Tick-borne relapsing fever (TBRF) in pregnant women is rare but can cause severe complications. Prompt diagnosis and management of TBRF and its associated Jarisch-Herxheimer reaction (J-HR) are crucial for favorable outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Medical microbiology
- Infectious diseases
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
Background:
- Tick-borne relapsing fever (TBRF) is an uncommon zoonotic disease caused by Borrelia species.
- Vertical transmission of TBRF during pregnancy poses risks including spontaneous abortion, preterm delivery, and perinatal mortality.
Observation:
- A 24-year-old pregnant woman at 23 weeks' gestation presented with relapsing fever and nonspecific symptoms.
- Peripheral blood smear revealed spirochetes consistent with TBRF, likely caused by Borrelia hermsii.
Findings:
- Antibiotic treatment for TBRF precipitated a Jarisch-Herxheimer reaction (J-HR).
- Supportive care and appropriate antibiotic therapy led to a clinical cure.
- The patient achieved a normal term delivery, indicating successful management of TBRF in pregnancy.
Implications:
- TBRF diagnosis should be considered in patients with recurrent fevers, particularly those with exposure to endemic areas.
- Close monitoring for J-HR is essential in individuals receiving antimicrobial treatment for TBRF.
- This case highlights the importance of timely diagnosis and management of TBRF in pregnant women to ensure maternal and fetal well-being.