Rickettsial pox

Causes and Risks:
Rickettsialpox is caused by Rickettsia akari and is commonly found ( endemic ) in the United States in New York City and other large eastern cities. It is transmitted by a mouse mite (Allodermanyssus sanguineus) and is found throughout the U.S.

The disease begins at the site of the mite bite as a nontender firm red nodule that develops into a vesicle (fluid-filled blister ) which then bursts and crusts over. This lesion may be large, almost up to an inch across. Several days later, the patient develops a fever and chills with sweating (diaphoresis) and muscle pain (myalgia). Over the next 2 to 3 days, a rash develops with many small versions of the initial lesion and resembling the chickenpox rash in nature. These lesions clear up within a week.

Prevention:
Sanitary measures, especially with regard to control of mice and their parasites, will prevent spread of rickettsialpox.

Symptoms:



Signs and Tests:
Physical examination confirms the presence of a rash that resembles chicken pox .

Tests:



Treatment:
The goal of treatment is eradication of the infection. Medications used include tetracycline and doxycycline.

Prognosis:
Full recovery is expected.

Complications:
There are usually no complications if the disorder is treated.

Call Your Healthcare Provider:
Call your health care provider if your child has symptoms suggestive of rickettsialpox.


This is a magnified photograph of a mite. Mites are carriers (vectors) of many important diseases including typhus (scrub and murine) and rickettsialpox. (Courtesy of the Centers for Disease Control.)