Real-time PCR for early diagnosis of Rickettsia conorii and prompt management in patients with septic shock and multiple organ failure: two case reports

Abstract

We herein describe two severe cases of Mediterranean spotted fever caused by Rickettsia conorii. The ar- ticle presents polymerase chain reaction-restriction analysis as an early diagnostic tool for rickettsiosis caused by spotted fever group Rickettsiae. Timely microbiological diagnosis, the combined use of antibi- otics, intensive care measures and a multidisciplinary team approach are fundamental to manage these serious diseases.