Rat-bite fever: a rare but potentially serious disease

Rat-bite fever is a rare but potentially serious infectious disease caused by bacteria transmitted through the bite or scratch of a rodent, particularly rats. The two main bacteria responsible for this infection are Streptobacillus moniliformis and Spirillum minus.

Causes

Rodent bites, scratches, handling infected rodents, and consuming food or water contaminated with rodent urine or droppings transmit rat-bite fever to humans.

Symptoms

Symptoms of rat-bite fever usually develop within 3-10 days after exposure but can delay up to three weeks. The symptoms can vary depending on the causative bacteria:

Streptobacillus moniliformis infection:

• Fever and chills
• Vomiting
• Headache
• Muscle pain
• Joint pain or swelling
• Rash (often appearing on the hands and feet)

Spirillum minus infection:

• Fever that recurs in cycles (comes and goes)
• Swelling around the wound site
• Ulcer at the bite site
• Swollen lymph nodes
• General discomfort

Complications

Unaddressed rat-bite fever can lead to severe health complications, such as:

• Endocarditis (infection of the heart valves)
• Meningitis (infection of the membranes covering the brain and spinal cord)
• Pneumonia
• Abscesses in internal organs

Diagnosis

To diagnose rat-bite fever, healthcare providers combine a clinical examination with laboratory tests. They may take samples from blood, skin lesions, or joint fluid to identify the causative bacteria. A detailed patient history, including recent rodent exposure or bites, also proves crucial for diagnosis.

Suspicion and Confirmation

Suspect rat-bite fever in individuals presenting symptoms like fever, rash, and joint pain, especially if coupled with a recent history of rodent exposure or bites. Healthcare providers will consider this diagnosis, particularly if there is known or reported contact with rodents.

Treatment

Treat rat-bite fever with antibiotics. The most common choices include penicillin or doxycycline, usually administered for one to two weeks. In cases of penicillin allergy, alternatives such as erythromycin may be recommended. Prompt treatment is important to prevent complications and ensure a full recovery.

Prevention

Preventative measures to reduce the risk of rat-bite fever include:

• Avoiding contact with wild rodents
• Keeping living and working areas clean to deter rodent infestations
• Using protective gloves and clothing when handling rodents
• Ensuring proper handling and disposal of rodent waste
• Practicing good hand hygiene by washing hands thoroughly after handling rodents or cleaning rodent-contaminated areas

Conclusion

Rat-bite fever, though rare, presents a potentially serious illness that requires prompt medical attention. Recognizing the symptoms and seeking early treatment are crucial for preventing complications. Taking preventive measures significantly reduces the risk of contracting this infection from rodents. If you suspect exposure to rat-bite fever, consult a healthcare provider immediately.

By being aware of common symptoms and understanding the importance of recent rodent exposure, you can suspect this disease early, allowing for timely diagnostic testing and treatment.