Early Findings of Rickettsioses in Morocco

Abstract

Background & objectives: Rickettsioses are zoonoses transmitted to humans by arthropods. They are due to strict intracellular bacteria belonging to the family Rickettsiaceae. Our purpose is to present the clinical and paraclinical characteristics of 14 new cases diagnosed in Al-Hoceima region, Morocco; indeed, the patients associated a diagnosis of Mediterranean Spotted Fever (MSF). Results: The average age of patients was 55 years. The patients were hospitalized for infectious syndrome, renal deficiency, pneumonia, and suspected meningitis. All cases had a general papular rash with palmo-plantar involvement, 12 out of 14 patients showed an escarotic spot, while neurological disorders were observed in 2 patients. Ophthalmic involvement was represented by retinal vasculitis in a single patient. Thrombocytopenia and cytolysis were constant in all patients. Renal deficiency was found in 3 cases and 2 cases had interstitial syndrome. The serology was positive in only one patient. All cases had been treated with doxycycline 200mg/day for 7 days with a good improvement of the clinical and biological symptoms. Interpretation & conclusion: The frequency of MSF in Morocco is not completely elucidated. A good knowledge of the clinical form allows an early diagnosis in order to institute an effective treatment.

Keywords

• rickettsiosis
• mediterranean spotted fever
• maculopapular rash