Coxiella burnetii Infection Associated With Thromboangiitis Obliterans–like Phenomena With Digital Autoamputation: A Case Report and Review of Q Fever–Associated Autoimmunity

Abstract

Abstract We present a case of a patient with chronic Q fever who presented with digital necrosis, autoamputations, and positive anticentromere antibody, mimicking a scleroderma vasculopathy or thromboangiitis obliterans. Coxiella burnetii infection has long been associated with the presence of autoantibodies and autoimmune phenomena including vasculitis. Clinicians should consider Q fever testing in patients with new-onset autoimmune diseases or autoantibodies and appropriate exposure histories.