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Ehrlichiosis--a cause of prolonged fever
W E Roland1, G McDonald, C W Caldwell
1Department of Internal Medicine, University of Missouri Health Sciences Center, Columbia 65212, USA.
Summary
Human ehrlichiosis, a tick-borne illness, can cause prolonged fever lasting up to 51 days. Consider this diagnosis for patients with persistent fever in endemic areas.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Tick-Borne Illnesses
- Microbiology
Background:
- Human ehrlichiosis is an emerging tick-borne disease.
- Most cases present as acute, nonspecific febrile illness.
- The natural history of untreated ehrlichiosis is not well understood.
Observation:
- A 4-year study identified 41 cases of human ehrlichiosis.
- Six patients presented with protracted fever, lasting 17 to 51 days.
- Clinical and laboratory findings were consistent with ehrlichiosis.
Findings:
- Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) rapidly confirmed ehrlichiosis in 4 of 5 tested patients.
- Prolonged fever is a significant clinical manifestation.
- Serological testing and PCR are key diagnostic methods.
Implications:
- Clinicians should consider human ehrlichiosis in patients with prolonged fever.
- Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing tick-borne diseases.
- Further research into the natural history of ehrlichiosis is warranted.