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Information

Within the first 3 days, diagnosis is difficult, since only 3% of pts have the classic triad of fever, rash, and known history of tick exposure. When the rash appears, RMSF should be considered.

Treatment: Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever

  • Doxycycline (100 mg bid PO or IV) is the agent of choice for both children and adults but not for pregnant women and pts allergic to this drug, who should receive chloramphenicol.
  • Treatment is given until the pt is afebrile and has been improving for 2 or 3 days.

Outline

Section 7. Infectious Diseases