Japanese spotted fever complicated with pleural effusion in Zhejiang province, China: a case report and literature review

Abstract

Introduction: Japanese spotted fever (JSF) mainly occurs in Japan; however, it has been increasingly reported in China. JSF is typically characterized by fever, rash, and eschar, in addition to non-specific symptoms. Yet, reports on the pulmonary indicators in JSF are limited. Herein, we report an unusual case of JSF associated with pleural effusion and pneumonia, in which the pathogen was identified via blood next-generation sequencing (NGS). Case presentation: We report a case of a 33-year-old woman who presented with fever for five days, rash for two days, and myalgia, fatigue, and edema for one day. She had recently been on vacation when an unknown insect bit her. The doctors at the local primary hospital considered a bacterial infection and administered dexamethasone, ceftriaxone, indomethacin, and anti-allergy agents, but the symptoms persisted. A rash without pruritus or pain developed gradually over the entire body and face. We considered rickettsial infection and administered doxycycline and levofloxacin. Metagenomic NGS from blood confirmed the presence of Rickettsia japonica (R. japonica). Abdominal computed tomography revealed bilateral pleural effusion with two atelectasis; patchy shadows with blurred edges, and uniform enhancement in both lower lungs. After several days of treatment, the symptoms and laboratory results improved. A literature review of the epidemiology of R. japonica and JSF in China, characteristics of JSF, and related pulmonary changes, and technology to diagnose JSF is provided. Conclusions: JSF has a variety of symptoms and is becoming increasingly popular in China. Clinical doctors need to identify it carefully.