Rickettsialpox

Editor-In-Chief: Prab R Tumpati, MD
Obesity, Sleep & Internal medicine
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Rickettsialpox
Synonyms
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Fever, rash, eschar, headache, malaise
Complications
Onset	1-2 weeks after exposure
Duration	1-2 weeks
Types	N/A
Causes	Rickettsia akari
Risks	Exposure to infected mites
Diagnosis	Clinical evaluation, serology
Differential diagnosis	Chickenpox, smallpox, herpes simplex
Prevention	Avoidance of mite-infested areas
Treatment	Doxycycline, tetracycline
Medication
Prognosis	Generally good with treatment
Frequency	Rare
Deaths	Rare

Rickettsialpox is a rickettsial infection, specifically a type of bacterial infection, caused by Rickettsia akari. It is typically transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mite.

Symptoms

The symptoms of rickettsialpox typically appear within one to two weeks after the bite of an infected mite. The initial symptom is often a small, painless bump (eschar) at the site of the mite bite. This is followed by the sudden onset of flu-like symptoms, including fever, chills, headache, and muscle aches. A widespread rash typically appears within a few days of the onset of fever.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of rickettsialpox is typically made based on the characteristic symptoms and history of exposure to mites. Laboratory tests can confirm the diagnosis, but these are not always necessary.

Treatment

Rickettsialpox is typically treated with antibiotics, such as doxycycline or tetracycline. Most people recover fully with appropriate treatment.

Prevention

Prevention of rickettsialpox involves avoiding exposure to mites. This can be achieved by keeping homes clean and free of mites and by using insect repellents.

See also

• List of cutaneous conditions
• Rickettsia

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