Clinically-diagnosed Mediterranean Spotted Fever in Malta

摘要

Background: Mediterranean Spotted Fever (MSF) is a tick-borne zoonosis caused by Rickettsia conorii which is endemic in Malta, an island in the South Mediterranean that is a popular tourist destination. Diagnosis is frequently based on clinical manifestations as laboratory results are often limited to a retrospective diagnosis. We describe the clinical presentation, diagnosis and treatment of children 16 years who presented with MSF from 2011 to 2016.