[Brucellosis, an overview and current aspects]

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Zoonoses
• Microbiology

Background:

• Brucellosis is a zoonotic disease primarily affecting livestock like sheep, goats, and cattle.
• While not endemic in Germany, brucellosis is a significant imported infectious disease.
• Fever of unknown origin in patients with a travel history to endemic regions necessitates brucellosis evaluation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the relevance of imported brucellosis in non-endemic regions.
• To emphasize the diagnostic approach and treatment challenges of brucellosis.
• To inform healthcare providers about the mandatory exclusion of brucellosis in specific patient groups.

Main Methods:

• Diagnostic gold standard is bacterial culture.
• Early laboratory notification is crucial due to specific requirements.
• Treatment typically involves a combination antibiotic regimen.

Main Results:

• Brucellosis is a relevant imported disease in Germany.
• Cultural methods are essential for diagnosis.
• Long-term antibiotic therapy is required for treatment.

Conclusions:

• Brucellosis must be formally excluded in patients presenting with fever of unknown origin after visiting highly endemic countries.
• Laboratory preparedness and timely notification are critical for accurate diagnosis.
• Effective treatment necessitates a prolonged combination therapy with doxycycline and rifampin.