Carrion's Disease / Oroya Fever synonyms:
Carrion's Disease, also known as Oroya Fever, is a rare infectious disease caused by the bacterium Bartonella bacilliformis. It is primarily found in the Andean regions of South America, particularly in Peru, Ecuador, and Colombia. The disease is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected sand flies, specifically the Lutzomyia verrucarum species.
Symptoms:
The symptoms of Carrion's Disease / Oroya Fever can be divided into two distinct phases: the acute phase and the chronic phase.
Acute Phase:
During the acute phase, which typically lasts for 4-8 weeks, patients experience a sudden onset of symptoms. These may include high fever, severe headache, muscle and joint pain, fatigue, and anemia. Skin lesions, known as "verruga peruana," may also develop, which are characterized by raised, red or purple nodules on the skin.
Chronic Phase:
If left untreated, the disease progresses to the chronic phase, which can last for months or even years. In this phase, patients may develop complications such as severe anemia, enlarged spleen and liver, and bone lesions. The mortality rate during the chronic phase is significantly lower than in the acute phase.
Treatment:
Early diagnosis and prompt treatment are crucial in managing Carrion's Disease / Oroya Fever. The primary treatment involves the use of antibiotics, such as ciprofloxacin or doxycycline, to eliminate the bacteria from the bloodstream. In severe cases, blood transfusions may be necessary to address anemia. Additionally, supportive care, including pain relief and management of complications, is essential.
Prevention:
Preventing Carrion's Disease / Oroya Fever primarily involves avoiding exposure to sand fly bites. This can be achieved by using insect repellents, wearing protective clothing, and sleeping in screened or air-conditioned rooms. Vector control measures, such as insecticide spraying and environmental modifications, can also help reduce the sand fly population.