Rat Bite Fever

Introduction. 

Rat bite fever is a rare bacterial infection caused by Gram-negative bacteria which reside in the oropharynx of rodents. A related infection, transmitted by contaminated food or water, is called Haverhill Fever.

Summary

• Cause: Streptobacillus monilliformis
• Microscopy: long thin bacilli, often pleomorphic
• Symptoms:  fever, headache, chills, joint pain, petechial rash
• Transmission: rodent bite; contaminated food (Haverhill fever)
• Complications: 10% mortality if untreated
• Treatment: Penicillin, tetracycline

References/Links

1. http://cmr.asm.org/content/20/1/13/F2.expansion.html
2. http://journal.nzma.org.nz/journal/120-1254/2545/