Rickettsial diseases in Indian context

Abstract Rickettsial diseases are one of the most covert re-emerging infections of the present times. Rickettsial diseases are extraordinarily difficult to diagnose due to low index of suspicion, nonspecific signs and symptoms, and absence of widely available sensitive and specific diagnostic tests but are extraordinarily easy and inexpensive to treat if diagnosed early. Suspecting Rickettsial diseases in nonspecific febrile illnesses on the basis of clinical, laboratory and epidemiological clues is the key to prevent high morbidity and mortality associated with undiagnosed or late diagnosed cases. Their early diagnosis also reduces financial strain on patients of fever without source (FWS) and pyrexia of unknown origin (PUO) by reducing load of extensive investigations and multiple empiric therapies. This review is aimed at practicing pediatricians to increase awareness of these diseases in India contributing to improvement in public health.