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An Electroporation Method to Transform Rickettsia spp. with a Fluorescent Protein-Expressing Shuttle Vector in Tick Cell Lines
Published on: October 11, 2022
Rickettsialpox in a Pediatric Patient.
Anthonia Hananiya1, Lindsey C Douglas, Michele Fagan
1From the Divisions of *Pediatric Infectious Disease, †Pediatric Hospital Medicine, and ‡Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital at Montefiore/Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx NY.
Rickettsialpox, a rare urban tick-borne illness, was diagnosed in a 12-year-old girl presenting with fever and swelling. Classic symptoms including an eschar, rash, and fever confirmed the diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Vector-Borne Illnesses
- Dermatology
Background:
- Rickettsialpox is a rare rickettsiosis transmitted by vectors.
- It predominantly affects urban populations, with notable occurrences in New York City.
- Early diagnosis can be challenging, often mistaken for other conditions like cellulitis.
Observation:
- A case study of a 12-year-old girl with unexplained fever and right ankle swelling.
- Initial treatment for cellulitis was ineffective.
- Development of a maculopapular rash, a key diagnostic sign.
Findings:
- The patient presented with the classic triad for rickettsialpox: fever, papular rash, and a black eschar.
- Positive convalescent rickettsial titers confirmed the diagnosis.
- This case highlights the importance of recognizing the full spectrum of rickettsialpox symptoms.
Implications:
- Accurate and timely diagnosis of rickettsialpox is crucial for effective treatment.
- Increased awareness among clinicians in urban areas can improve patient outcomes.
- Understanding vector-borne disease transmission in urban environments is essential for public health.
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