Rickettsial
Rickettsial
Rickettsial (/rɪˈkɛtsiəl/ ri-KET-see-əl) refers to any of the diseases caused by bacteria of the order Rickettsiales. The term is derived from the name of Howard Taylor Ricketts, an American pathologist who first identified these bacteria in the early 20th century.
Definition
Rickettsial diseases are a variety of medical conditions caused by infection with bacteria from the order Rickettsiales. These diseases are often transmitted through the bites of fleas, ticks, and lice. The bacteria invade the cells lining blood vessels, causing symptoms such as fever, headache, and rash.
Types of Rickettsial Diseases
There are several types of rickettsial diseases, including:
- Rocky Mountain spotted fever: This is the most severe and most frequently reported rickettsial illness in the United States. It is transmitted to humans by the bite of infected tick species.
- Typhus: There are several types of typhus, all caused by rickettsial bacteria. The most common form is epidemic typhus, which is spread by body lice.
- Q fever: This disease is caused by the bacteria Coxiella burnetii, which is considered a type of rickettsia. It is usually transmitted to humans from cattle, sheep, and goats.
Treatment
Rickettsial diseases are usually treated with antibiotics, such as doxycycline. Early treatment is crucial to prevent severe illness or death.
Prevention
Prevention of rickettsial diseases primarily involves avoiding contact with the insects that transmit these bacteria. This can include using insect repellent, wearing long sleeves and pants, and checking for ticks after being in wooded or grassy areas.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Rickettsial
- Wikipedia's article - Rickettsial
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