The first case of tsutsugamushi disease in 20 years infected in a rural region of Osaka

Abstract

Recently cases of tsutsugamushi disease have been reported in various areas in Japan. We met a case infected in a rural area, Sennan of Osaka prefecture. The patient suffered from high fever, left axillary lymphadenitis. At his left elbow an eschar was detected, so tsutsugamushi disease was suspected, despite no rash nor CRP elevation. By indirect immunofluorescence (IF) method, the diagnosis was confirmed. At an early stage (the fifth day after onset) he was followed by probable DIC, remitted successfully by administration of minocycline. For 20 years tsutsugamushi disease has not been reported in Osaka prefecture. This case is the second one and the first child case in Wakayama prefecture. Epidemiologic assessments may need to be investigated in Osaka and Wakayama Prefecture.