Q fever pneumonia

Abstract

Purpose of review: In this era of emerging infectious diseases and bioterrorism it is important to be up to date with the diagnosis and management of Q fever pneumonia.

Recent findings: A considerable amount of new information has emerged regarding the pathogenesis of Coxiella burnetii infection. The complete genome of this microorganism has now been sequenced and there are several unique features. The spectrum of manifestations of infection due to C. burnetii continues to expand. Some of the more recently described findings are acalculous cholecystitis, rhabdomyolysis, long-term persistence of Coxiella, post Q fever fatigue syndrome, and hemolytic uremic syndrome. Pneumonia as a manifestation of acute Q fever shows tremendous geographic variation, being common in one area of a country such as Spain but not in another area.

Summary: Pneumonia continues to be an important manifestation of infection with C. burnetii. It responds to treatment with doxycycline, quinolones or macrolides.