Rickettsia conorii

Rickettsia conorii is a Gram-negative, obligate intracellular bacterium of the genus Rickettsia that is the causative agent of Mediterranean spotted fever, also known as Boutonneuse fever. This bacterium is transmitted to humans by the bite of a tick, specifically the brown dog tick (Rhipicephalus sanguineus).

Taxonomy

Rickettsia conorii belongs to the genus Rickettsia, which is a part of the phylum Proteobacteria. This genus is further divided into four groups: the spotted fever group, the typhus group, the Rickettsia bellii group, and the Rickettsia canadensis group. Rickettsia conorii is a member of the spotted fever group.

Pathogenesis

The bacterium is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected tick. Once inside the human body, Rickettsia conorii infects the endothelial cells lining the blood vessels, causing vasculitis, a condition characterized by inflammation of the blood vessels. This results in the characteristic symptoms of Mediterranean spotted fever, which include fever, headache, and a rash.

Clinical Presentation

The primary symptom of infection with Rickettsia conorii is Mediterranean spotted fever, which is characterized by fever, headache, and a rash. The rash typically begins on the extremities and spreads to the trunk. In severe cases, the disease can cause complications such as meningitis, encephalitis, and pneumonia.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis of Rickettsia conorii infection is typically based on clinical presentation and confirmed by laboratory testing. Treatment usually involves antibiotics, with doxycycline being the drug of choice.

Prevention

Prevention of Rickettsia conorii infection primarily involves avoiding tick bites through the use of insect repellents and protective clothing.

See Also

• Rickettsia rickettsii
• Rocky Mountain spotted fever
• Tick-borne diseases

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