Tularemia
Description
An infection caused by the bacteria Francisella tularensis. The infection is acquired by contact with infected tissue of rodents or through the bite of a infected tick, horse fly or mosquito. The disease is most commonly found in North America, Europe and Asia. Fatal cases can occur in up to 5% of untreated patients and 1% of those receiving the appropriate antibiotic. The infection can involve bone (osteomyelitis), the heart (pericarditis), the brain (meningitis), or the lungs (pneumonia).
Symptoms
Symptoms begin 3-5 days after exposure and include: fever, chills, headache, red and painful eyes, joint pain, muscle pain, breathing problems, cough, rash, skin ulcer, sweating, confusion, coma, death.
Tests
A history and physical exam will be done. Blood tests and imaging tests may be performed. The bacteria can be identified through a bacterial culture. A blood tests can also be performed to identify the antibody (IgM) against the bacteria.
- Antibody Tests
- CBC
- Cultures of blood
Treatment
Therapy depends on the seriousness of the infection. The antibiotics tetracycline, streptomycin and gentamicin are usually given to kill the bacteria.
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