Question

Clinical features of Scrub Typhus.

Hint:

The presence of an eschar at the site of a mite bite is highly suggestive of scrub typhus, especially in endemic areas.

Answer 1

Scrub typhus is a rickettsial infection caused by *Orientia tsutsugamushi*, transmitted through the bite of infected chiggers (larvae of mites). The clinical features include:
1. Fever: Sudden onset of high fever, often with chills.
2. Rash: A maculopapular or petechial rash may develop after 3-5 days of fever, often starting on the trunk.
3. Eschar: A characteristic painless, necrotic ulcer (eschar) at the site of the mite bite is present in many patients, though not all.
4. Lymphadenopathy: Swollen lymph nodes near the site of infection.
5. Headache and muscle pain: Generalized symptoms like headache, myalgia, and malaise.
6. Other symptoms: Nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain may also be present in some cases.