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Measles in patients suspected of having Rocky Mountain spotted fever
JAMA
|August 22, 1980
Abstract:
Diagnostic titer rises of measles antibody were observed in six of 46 paired sera from persons originally suspected of having Rocky Mountain spotted fever and found to be serologically negative for this disease. Atypical or typical measles is now occurring relatively more frequently in adolescents and young adults and should be considered in the differential diagnosis for patients in these age groups who have undiagnosed febrile rash illnesses.
Insights
Measles antibody titer rises were detected in individuals initially suspected of Rocky Mountain spotted fever. Measles should be considered in adolescents and young adults with undiagnosed febrile rash illnesses.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Immunology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF) is a serious tick-borne illness.
- Measles is a highly contagious viral illness characterized by fever and rash.
- Differential diagnosis for febrile rash illnesses can be challenging.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate unexpected measles antibody titer rises in patients initially tested for RMSF.
- To highlight the importance of considering measles in specific patient demographics presenting with febrile rash.
Main Methods:
- Serological testing of paired sera from patients suspected of RMSF.
- Analysis of diagnostic titer rises for measles antibodies.
Main Results:
- Six out of 46 (13%) individuals initially serologically negative for RMSF showed diagnostic titer rises for measles antibodies.
- Atypical or typical measles is increasingly prevalent in adolescents and young adults.
Conclusions:
- Measles should be included in the differential diagnosis for adolescents and young adults presenting with undiagnosed febrile rash illnesses, especially when RMSF is initially suspected but ruled out.
- Unexpected measles seroconversion can occur in patients with other suspected febrile illnesses.
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