Q Fever with Clinical Features Resembling Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

Abstract

A 23-year-old woman with prolonged fever, rash, and pericarditis associated with high titers of antinuclear, anti-Sm, and anti-RNP antibodies was suspected of having systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). However, we also considered infectious diseases, particularly Q fever, as the C-reactive protein level was elevated and the patient reported contact with zoo animals around two weeks before the onset. The condition responded rapidly to administration of minocycline; symptoms resolved without using steroids. Thereafter, no recurrence of the illness was observed. Titer of Coxiella burnetii antibody was high and the illness was accordingly diagnosed as acute Q fever rather than SLE.