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Infective Endocarditis Due to Q Fever From a Tick Bite: A Case Report
Fawaz Mohammed1, Evan Gleaves2, Patricia Tellez Watson3
1Internal Medicine, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Bowling Green, USA.
Cureus
|August 8, 2024
Summary
Q fever, a Coxiella burnetti infection, can cause vague symptoms like recurrent fevers. Early recognition and treatment with doxycycline and hydroxychloroquine are crucial for Q fever endocarditis.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Bacteriology
- Cardiology
Background:
- Q fever is caused by Coxiella burnetti, a bacterium often transmitted by ticks.
- Symptoms of Q fever can be non-specific, making diagnosis challenging.
- Endocarditis is a serious complication of Q fever, particularly in individuals with pre-existing heart conditions.
Observation:
- A patient presented with recurrent fevers and a history of multiple tick bites.
- Clinical examination and laboratory tests indicated Q fever endocarditis.
- The patient had a history of recurrent fevers.
Findings:
- Infection with Coxiella burnetti can lead to Q fever endocarditis.
- Recurrent fevers in a patient with tick bite history may indicate Q fever.
- Prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential for managing Q fever endocarditis.
Implications:
- Maintaining a high index of suspicion for Q fever is vital in patients with unexplained fevers.
- Timely diagnosis and treatment of Q fever endocarditis can lead to favorable outcomes.
- This case underscores the importance of considering tick-borne illnesses in febrile patients.
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