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Rat bite fever with osteomyelitis and discitis: case report and literature review
Steven H Adams1, Rahul Mahapatra2,3
1Upstate Medical University, 750 E Adams St, Syracuse, NY, 13210, USA.
Background:
Rat bite fever (RBF) is a rare systemic febrile illness transmitted by rats. Streptobacillus moniliformis is a pleomorphic Gram-negative bacillus which is the usual etiologic organism for rat bite fever in the United States.
Case Presentation:
Here we present a case of rat bite fever complicated by vertebral osteomyelitis and discitis. The patient revealed an exposure history of being bitten by pet rats. The patient's symptoms dramatically improved with a six-week course of cephalexin therapy.
Conclusions:
It is important to obtain a thorough zoonotic exposure history and maintain rat bite fever in the differential when considering potential causes of discitis and osteomyelitis.
Insights
Rat bite fever (RBF), a rare illness from rat exposure, can lead to vertebral osteomyelitis and discitis. Prompt diagnosis and antibiotic treatment are crucial for recovery.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Bacteriology
- Osteoarticular Infections
Background:
- Rat bite fever (RBF) is an uncommon zoonotic illness caused by rat exposure.
- Streptobacillus moniliformis is the typical bacterium responsible for RBF in the U.S.
Observation:
- A case of RBF complicated by vertebral osteomyelitis and discitis is presented.
- The patient had a history of being bitten by pet rats.
Findings:
- The patient's symptoms significantly improved after a six-week course of cephalexin.
- This case highlights a rare but serious complication of RBF.
Implications:
- A detailed zoonotic exposure history is vital for diagnosing RBF.
- Consider RBF in the differential diagnosis for patients presenting with discitis and osteomyelitis.
