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Relapsing fever: a differential diagnosis to malaria
1Department of Infectious Diseases, Marselisborg Hospital, Aurhus, Denmark.
Scandinavian Journal of Infectious Diseases
|January 1, 1996
Summary
A traveler returning from Asia experienced cyclical fevers, initially misdiagnosed as malaria. Diagnosis of Borrelia-induced relapsing fever was confirmed via blood smear and successfully treated with tetracycline.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
- Tropical Medicine
Background:
- Travelers to endemic regions are at risk for febrile illnesses.
- Cyclical fever patterns can mimic malaria, complicating initial diagnosis.
Observation:
- A young man returning from Asia presented with recurrent, short-lived febrile episodes.
- Initial malaria testing was negative, despite symptoms suggestive of the disease.
Findings:
- Blood smear analysis revealed Borrelia spirochaetes, confirming a diagnosis of relapsing fever.
- The patient experienced immediate improvement following treatment with tetracycline.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering tick-borne relapsing fever in febrile travelers from Asia.
- Prompt identification and antibiotic treatment (tetracycline) are crucial for effective management of Borrelia infections.