RESUMEN

We describe 3 cases of Mediterranean spotted fever (MSF) who presented with severe sepsis, in 2 of which the clinical diagnosis was unclear at presentation. In each case the diagnosis of MSF was made using a nested-PCR assay for Rickettsia conorii 17-kD protein gene. The nested-PCR based diagnosis preceded the serological results of MSF that were all negative at admission. The early diagnosis of MSF by specific PCR will facilitate an early institution of appropriate therapy, saving unnecessary tests and medications.

Asunto(s)

Antígenos Bacterianos/genética , Fiebre Botonosa/diagnóstico , Reacción en Cadena de la Polimerasa/métodos , Rickettsia conorii/genética , Adulto , Antibacterianos/uso terapéutico , Fiebre Botonosa/tratamiento farmacológico , Genes Bacterianos , Humanos , Masculino , Persona de Mediana Edad , Polimorfismo de Longitud del Fragmento de Restricción