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Medical Encyclopedia |
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Definition Return to top
Rickettsial pox is a disease spread by a mite. It causes a chickenpox-like rash on the body.
Causes Return to top
Rickettsial pox is caused by the bacteria, Rickettsia akari. It is commonly found in the United States in New York City and other city areas. It also has been seen in South Africa, Korea, and Russia.
It is spread by the bite of a mite that lives on mice.
Symptoms Return to top
The disease begins at the site of the mite bite as a painless, firm, red lump (nodule). The nodule develops into a fluid-filled blister that bursts and crusts over. This lump may be large -- almost up to an inch wide.
Other symptoms include:
The rash should clear up within a week.
Exams and Tests Return to top
The health care provider will do an examination to look for a rash similar to the one in chickenpox.
Tests include:
Treatment Return to top
The goal of treatment is to cure the infection. The basic treatment is with the antibiotic doxycycline. Other antibiotics include chloramphenicol and azithromycin.
Outlook (Prognosis) Return to top
Full recovery is expected.
Possible Complications Return to top
There are usually no complications if the disorder is treated.
When to Contact a Medical Professional Return to top
Call your health care provider if your child has symptoms of rickettsial pox.
Prevention Return to top
Sanitary measures, especially controlling mice and their parasites, will prevent the spread of rickettsial pox.
References Return to top
Raoult D, Rickettsia akari (Rickettsialpox). In: Mandell GL, Bennett JE, Dolin R, eds. Principles and Practice of Pediatric Infectious Diseases. 6th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Elsevier Churchill Livingstone; 2005:chap 185.
Update Date: 8/1/2008 Updated by: Neil K. Kaneshiro, MD, MHA, Clinical Assistant Professor of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
