Questions on Mediterranean Spotted Fever a Century after Its Discovery

摘要: Mediterranean spotted fever (MSF) is a tick-borne disease caused by Rickettsia conorii. It was first described century ago as that high and spots (1). Our knowledge about MSF has evolved since its description. First, we thought only limited to some regions of the world, i.e., southern Europe, North Africa, India. In fact, an increasing number have been reporting cases, such central Europe Africa. Serologic techniques cannot distinguish among different rickettsiae species group. Consequently, all rickettsioses with group (SFG) antibodies were considered in countries where this endemic. Early clinical descriptions relied on serologic test results likely include infections related multiple rickettsial probably not describing unique entity. For example, France, emerging bacteria, including R. sibirica mongolitimonae, slovaca, felis, helvetica, massiliae, recently The description patients France may included these rickettsioses. With new molecular tools PCR sequencing, can now identify much more precisely agent responsible for disease. MSF or reemerging countries. Oran, Algeria, case clinically diagnosed 1993. Since time, cases steadily increased (2). other basin, Italy Portugal, incidence substantially past 10 years. Another point 70 years benign when compared Rocky Mountain (RMSF). because lack medical interest MSF, real severity long ignored. Although mortality rate evaluated be from 1% 3% early reports literature, highly severe form published 1980s (3). At present, know at least RMSF 32.3%, which occurred Portugal 1997 (4). Although many hypotheses suggested, nature distribution reservoir are still answered. aim review show evolution our emphasis epidemiology, features, forms.