Rat-bite fever history and symptoms

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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]

Overview

Initial symptoms are non-specific and include fever, chills, myalgias, arthralgias, headache, vomiting. Patients may develop a maculopapular rash on the extremities or septic arthritis 2-4 days after fever onset. The incubation period typically ranges from 2-10 days. If not appropriately treated, severe manifestations may include endocarditis, myocarditis, meningitis, pneumonia and sepsis. In rare cases, death occurs.

Symptoms

Symptoms depend on the bacteria that caused the infection. Symptoms due to Streptobacillus moniliformis may include:

• Chills
• Fever
• Joint pain, redness, or swelling
• Rash

Symptoms due to Spirillum minus may include:

• Chills
• Open sore at the site of the bite
• Rash -- may be red/purple plaques