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[Rat bite fever in a three-year-old child].
Ea Sofie Marmolin1, Joanna Lis-Tønder, Mads Damkjær
1ea.sofie.marmolin2@rsyd.dk.
Ugeskrift for Laeger
|September 5, 2017
Summary
Rat bite fever (RBF), a rare infection in Denmark caused by Streptobacillus moniliformis, can be challenging to diagnose. Prompt antibiotic treatment led to a full recovery in a young child with RBF from domestic rat exposure.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Rat bite fever (RBF) is a zoonotic illness caused by Streptobacillus moniliformis.
- Diagnosis can be challenging due to the fastidious nature of the organism requiring specific growth conditions.
- RBF is uncommon in Denmark, making it a less considered diagnosis.
Observation:
- A three-year-old girl presented with arthritis in her right ankle.
- The child had two pet rats at home, indicating potential exposure.
- The causative agent was identified as Streptobacillus moniliformis.
Findings:
- The patient received a 14-day course of intravenous penicillin, followed by four weeks of oral amoxicillin.
- Complete recovery from the ankle arthritis was achieved with the prescribed antibiotic regimen.
- The case highlights the link between domestic rat ownership and RBF infection.
Implications:
- Clinicians should consider RBF in patients with relevant exposure, especially with the increasing popularity of rodents as pets.
- Early and appropriate antibiotic therapy is crucial for successful treatment and recovery from RBF.
- Increased awareness of RBF is needed in regions where it is considered rare, such as Denmark.
