Tularemia
About Tularemia
An infection caused by the bacteria Francisella tularensis. The infection is acquired by contact with infected tissue of rodents or through the bite of an infected tick, horse fly or mosquito. The disease is most commonly found in North America, Europe and Asia. Fatal cases can occur in up to 5% of untreated patients and 1% of those receiving the appropriate antibiotic. The infection can involve bone (osteomyelitis), the heart (pericarditis), the brain (meningitis), or the lungs (pneumonia).Symptoms
Symptoms begin 3-5 days after exposure and include: fever, chills, headache, red and painful eyes, joint pain, muscle pain, breathing problems, cough, rash, skin ulcer, sweating, confusion, coma, death.Tests & Diagnostics
A history and physical exam will be done. Blood tests and imaging tests may be performed. The bacteria can be identified through a bacterial culture. A blood test can also be performed to identify the antibody (IgM) against the bacteria.Common tests: Antibody Tests, Complete blood count (CBC), Cultures of blood.
Prescription medications
Conventional treatment summary
Therapy depends on the seriousness of the infection. The antibiotics tetracycline, streptomycin and gentamicin are usually given to kill the bacteria.Medical specialties
Internal Medicine · Pediatrics · Infectious Disease Medicine · Pediatric Infectious Disease Medicine
This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Tularemia.