Brazilian Spotted Fever
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17921/1415-6938.2025v29n3p773-785Abstract
Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF) is a rare febrile disease caused by gram-negative bacteria of the genus Rickettsia, transmitted to humans through the bite of ticks, commonly known as the star tick (Amblyomma genus), which feed on blood and use various animals, such as capybaras and horses, as hosts. Initially described in North America in the late 19th century, RMSF in Brazil is more prevalent during winter and early spring, primarily affecting individuals residing near dense vegetation and habitats of wild animals that host ticks. Aiming to enhance understanding of the disease and contribute to the development of control strategies, this study conducted a literature review on RMSF, addressing etiological agents, predominant vectors, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, treatment, preventive measures, and epidemiological data provided by the Ministry of Health for the period from 2010 to 2024. The search was conducted in databases such as PubMed, LILACS, SciELO, and Google Scholar using Portuguese and English keywords, including "Brazilian Spotted Fever," "Rickettsia sp," "Infection by Rickettsia rickettsii," "Diagnosis," and "Treatment." Original studies, reviews, and official documents were included. The results of this review indicate that RMSF requires early diagnosis and immediate treatment, preferably with doxycycline, to reduce mortality and prevent severe complications. Prophylactic measures, such as avoiding tick-infested areas and performing frequent body inspections, are essential for prevention. This study highlights the need for further research to expand knowledge of RMSF and improve control and prevention strategies for the disease in Brazil.
Keywords: Brazilian Spotted Fever. Star Tick. Rickettsioses. Public Health.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Ana Carolina Duarte Zampieri, Leonardo Gorla Nogueira, Adilson Cesar Abreu Bernardi, Flávia Resende
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