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Updated: Oct 21, 2025
An Electroporation Method to Transform Rickettsia spp. with a Fluorescent Protein-Expressing Shuttle Vector in Tick Cell Lines
Published on: October 11, 2022
Early Findings of Rickettsioses in Morocco
Meryem Soughi1, Hajar Khibri2, Saïd Boujraf3
1Department of Dermatological Medicine, Regional Hospital of Al-Hociema, Al-Hociema, Morocco.
Background & Objectives:
Rickettsioses are zoonoses transmitted to humans by arthropods. They are due to strict intracellular bacteria belonging to the family Rickettsiaceae. Our purpose is to present the clinical and paraclinical characteristics of 14 new cases diagnosed in Al-Hoceima region, Morocco; indeed, the patients associated a diagnosis of Mediterranean Spotted Fever (MSF).
Results:
The average age of patients was 55 years. The patients were hospitalized for infectious syndrome, renal deficiency, pneumonia, and suspected meningitis. All cases had a general papular rash with palmo-plantar involvement, 12 out of 14 patients showed an escarotic spot, while neurological disorders were observed in 2 patients. Ophthalmic involvement was represented by retinal vasculitis in a single patient. Thrombocytopenia and cytolysis were constant in all patients. Renal deficiency was found in 3 cases and 2 cases had interstitial syndrome. The serology was positive in only one patient. All cases had been treated with doxycycline 200mg/day for 7 days with a good improvement of the clinical and biological symptoms.
Interpretation & Conclusion:
The frequency of MSF in Morocco is not completely elucidated. A good knowledge of the clinical form allows an early diagnosis in order to institute an effective treatment.
Insights
Mediterranean Spotted Fever (MSF) is a rickettsiosis diagnosed in 14 Moroccan patients presenting with rash, eschar, and thrombocytopenia. Early diagnosis and doxycycline treatment led to good clinical improvement.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Bacteriology
- Public Health
Background:
- Rickettsioses are zoonotic diseases caused by Rickettsia bacteria, transmitted by arthropods.
- This study details 14 new cases of Mediterranean Spotted Fever (MSF) in Morocco, focusing on clinical and paraclinical features.
Discussion:
- MSF commonly presents with fever, rash (including palms and soles), and eschar.
- Neurological and ophthalmic complications were noted in a minority of patients.
- Thrombocytopenia and elevated liver enzymes were consistent findings across all cases.
Key Insights:
- The study highlights the clinical spectrum of MSF in the Al-Hoceima region.
- Diagnostic challenges are evident, with only one positive serology case.
- Prompt treatment with doxycycline resulted in significant clinical and biological recovery.
Outlook:
- Further epidemiological studies are needed to understand the true prevalence of MSF in Morocco.
- Enhanced awareness of MSF clinical signs is crucial for timely diagnosis and effective management.
- Continued surveillance and research can improve control strategies for tick-borne rickettsioses.
