Relapsing fever
Alternative Names
Tick-borne relapsing fever, Louse-borne relapsing feverTreatment
Treatment involves antibiotics, most often tetracycline, doxycycline, or penicillin.
Outlook (Prognosis)
The death rate for untreated LBRF ranges from 10-70%. In TBRF, it is 4-10%. With early treatment, the death rate is reduced. Those who have developed coma, myocarditis, liver problems, and pneumonia have at higher risk of death.
Possible Complications
- Seizures
- Weakness
- Facial droop
- Meningitis
- Coma
- Myocarditis -- may lead to arrhythmias
- Pneumonia
- Liver dysfunction
- Widespread bleeding
- Deadly reaction to antibiotics (Jarisch - Herxheimer's reaction)
When to Contact a Medical Professional
Notify your medical provider if you are a returning traveler and you develop fever -- there are many different possible infections that will need to be investigated in a timely manner.
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