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Published on: October 12, 2012
Cutaneous manifestations in brucellosis.
Zeynep Karaali1, Birol Baysal, Sule Poturoglu
1Department of Internal Medicine, Haseki Training and Research Hospital, Millet caddesi, 34096 Haseki, Istanbul, Turkey.
Indian Journal of Dermatology
|July 21, 2011
Summary
Brucellosis, a zoonotic disease, can present with non-specific skin rashes. This case highlights a maculopapular rash caused by Brucella melitensis, confirmed by skin biopsy and blood culture.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Dermatology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Brucellosis is a prevalent zoonotic illness globally.
- Cutaneous manifestations occur in 1-14% of brucellosis patients but are often non-specific.
- Brucella melitensis is a common cause of human brucellosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a case of brucellosis presenting with a diffuse maculopapular rash.
- To illustrate the diagnostic findings in a patient with Brucella melitensis infection.
- To review the literature on cutaneous manifestations of brucellosis.
Main Methods:
- Case presentation of a 49-year-old female with fever and rash.
- Histopathological examination of skin biopsy.
- Blood cultures for bacterial identification.
Main Results:
- The patient presented with fever and a diffuse maculopapular rash.
- Skin biopsy revealed leukocytoclastic vasculitis.
- Blood cultures were positive for Brucella melitensis, confirming the diagnosis.
Conclusions:
- Brucellosis should be considered in patients with fever and unexplained skin rashes.
- Leukocytoclastic vasculitis can be a manifestation of Brucella infection.
- Diagnostic confirmation relies on microbiological evidence.
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