Persistent fever and exanthema in a family: a case report of Mediterranean spotted fever

Mediterranean spotted fever (also called Boutonneuse fever) is a notifiable disease in Hong Kong, but its diagnosis can be difficult. We report a case of Mediterranean spotted fever in a middle-aged man who presented with persistent fever, headache, and skin rash. Three weeks ago, his daughter had similar presentations. With a history of similar clinical presentation within family members, the possibility of potential exposure to a common disease vector should be suspected. Establishing an early diagnosis may be possible if this important history is obtained. Early recognition of this disease may lead to early therapeutic intervention, resulting in decreased morbidity and shortened duration of hospital stay. (Hong Kong j.emerg. med. 2005;12:91-94)