Question

A militant presents with rashes all over his body sparing the palms and soles. On examination, he was febrile and lice were noted. Which of the following is responsible for his condition?

• A. Rickettsia typhi
• B. Rickettsia prowazekii
• C. Rickettsia akari
• D. Rickettsia conorii

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

The condition described in the scenario suggests an infection caused by a type of Rickettsia. The key details noted are: presence of rashes sparing the palms and soles, febrile state, and lice infestation. These findings point towards Epidemic Typhus, which is typically caused by Rickettsia prowazekii.

Here's why each option is considered:

• Rickettsia typhi: This causes endemic typhus, typically associated with flea bites, not lice. Also, it usually does not present with the sparing of palms and soles.
• Rickettsia prowazekii: Causes epidemic typhus, which is transmitted by the body louse. It's characterized by the symptoms given, including rashes that spare the palms and soles, fever, and lice infestation.
• Rickettsia akari: Causes Rickettsialpox, which is transmitted by mite bites and presents differently.
• Rickettsia conorii: Responsible for Mediterranean spotted fever, transmitted by tick bites, usually presenting with an eschar and different rash distribution.

In summary, the symptoms match Rickettsia prowazekii due to the transmission via lice and characteristic symptomatology, making it the correct choice.