Rickettsiosis associated with cerebral infarction: a new case study

Abstract

Mediterranean spotted fever (MSF) is a rickettsiosis of the spotted fever group caused by rickettsia conorii. This zoonosis is benign but it can be complicated by severe neurological impairment (hence its severity). We report the case of a 49-year old patient hospitalized in the Department of Dermatology for rickettsiosis, who suffered from right massive hemiplegia of brutal onset. Magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) of the brain showed deep left sylvian fissure ischemic stroke. The diagnosis of conorii-type rickettsiosis has been retained based on the aspect of skin lesions and on positive sierologic testing with the indirect immunofluorescence method. Evolution was favorable under anti-biotherapy (Doxycycline and fluoroquinolone). Cerebral infarction, exceptionally reported in the framework of neurological manifestations of rickettsioses, is a complication that shouldn’t be underestimated especially when etiologic assessment (cardiovascular in particular) is negative.