Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 24, 2026
An Electroporation Method to Transform Rickettsia spp. with a Fluorescent Protein-Expressing Shuttle Vector in Tick Cell Lines
Published on: October 11, 2022
Purpura fulminans secondary to rickettsial infections: A case series
Saloni Katoch1, Ravindra Kallappa1, Murugesh B Shamanur1
1Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology, Jagadguru Jayadeva Murugarajendra Medical College, Davangere, Karnataka, India.
Abstract:
Purpura fulminans (PF) is a descriptive term used to describe a heterogeneous group of disorders characterized by rapidly progressive purpuric lesions that may develop into extensive areas of skin necrosis, and peripheral gangrene. This rare disorder is associated with laboratory evidence of consumptive coagulopathy and is often fatal. PF is usually associated with many infections, most notably with meningococcal, staphylococcal, and streptococcal infections. However, there are very few reports of this entity with spotted fever and scrub typhus from India. Rickettsial infections are an underdiagnosed group of diseases presenting as acute febrile illness, with high mortality in untreated cases. Of the available tests, Weil-Felix is a handy and economical tool for early diagnosis of this fatal disease especially in resource poor settings. We present four infants with PF secondary to rickettsial fever diagnosed by the Weil-Felix test.
Insights
Purpura fulminans, a rare and often fatal condition, can be caused by rickettsial infections. Early diagnosis using the Weil-Felix test is crucial, especially in resource-limited settings.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Infectious Diseases
- Dermatology
Background:
- Purpura fulminans (PF) is a severe condition characterized by rapid skin necrosis and gangrene, often linked to infections and consumptive coagulopathy.
- While commonly associated with bacterial infections, PF is rarely reported with rickettsial diseases like spotted fever and scrub typhus in India.
- Rickettsial infections are often underdiagnosed and present as acute febrile illness with high mortality if untreated.
Observation:
- This study reports four infants presenting with PF secondary to rickettsial fever.
- The diagnosis was established using the Weil-Felix test, a cost-effective diagnostic tool.
Findings:
- The cases highlight a rare presentation of PF in infants due to rickettsial infections.
- The Weil-Felix test proved effective for early diagnosis in these cases.
Implications:
- This underscores the importance of considering rickettsial infections in the differential diagnosis of PF, particularly in endemic areas.
- The findings emphasize the utility of the Weil-Felix test for prompt diagnosis and management of rickettsial PF in resource-poor settings.
- Early diagnosis and treatment of rickettsial infections can potentially reduce the mortality associated with PF.
Related Concept Videos
01:25Endocarditis II: Clinical Features of Infective Endocarditis
01:22Rheumatic Heart Disease II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies
01:23Rheumatic Heart Disease I: Introduction
01:28Acute Pyelonephritis II: Diagnostic Studies and Management
01:20Rheumatic Heart Disease IV: Nursing Management
01:21Rheumatic Heart Disease III: Medical Management