Scrub Typhus in Children: Jammu Experience.

ABSTRACT

The present retrospective study describes clinical profile of the children hospitalized in SMGS hospital with Scrub Typhus infection in Jammu during period Oct 08 to Sept 09. 21 hospitalized children with clinical features suggestive of Rickettsial disease (fever, generalized rash) who tested ELISA positive for IgM against Scrub Typhus were included in the present study between the age of 5 years and 18 years. 52.4% children belonged to Sunderbani-Naushera - Rajouri belt and majority of them reported during the months of August to November. All children presented with fever and maculopapular rash. 61.9% had lymphadenopathy, 57.12% had edema and 46% patients had conjunctival congestion. 76.13%, 23.8%, 19.04%, 9.2% had hepatosplenomegaly , pain abdomen ,altered sensorium and gastrointestinal bleed respectively. All of the 21 children were treated with chloramphenicol. None of them died. Rickettsial infection is quite common in Jammu region and thus, high degree of suspicion, knowledge of geographical distribution and clinical features of Rickettsial disease helps in its early diagnosis and treatment.