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Patient case: Typhoid Fever

Discussion

A 34-year-old male presents to the clinic with a 10-day history of intermittent high-grade fevers, fatigue, and diffuse abdominal pain. The patient reports experiencing generalized malaise, headaches, and a poor appetite. He also complains of nausea and intermittent diarrhea, which began a few days after the onset of fever. His symptoms initially seemed mild but progressively worsened over the past week.

On examination, the patient appears fatigued, with a temperature of 39.5°C (103°F) and mild tachycardia. Palpation of the abdomen reveals mild tenderness in the right lower quadrant, and there is hepatosplenomegaly. No signs of jaundice or significant dehydration are noted. Rose spots are visible on the patient’s abdomen.

The patient mentions a recent trip to an area with inadequate sanitation a few weeks ago, where he consumed untreated water. Blood cultures were taken, and results confirmed Salmonella typhi. The patient was diagnosed with typhoid fever and started on a course of antibiotics (ciprofloxacin) and supportive care, including rehydration therapy. Close follow-up is planned to monitor response to treatment and prevent complications.

Questions
1. What is the most likely cause of the patient's symptoms?

A) Hepatitis A

B) Typhoid Fever

C) Malaria

D) Gastroenteritis

2. What is the classic physical finding associated with typhoid fever?

A) Jaundice

B) Rash on the face

C) Rose spots on the abdomen

D) Swollen lymph nodes

3. Which of the following is the primary mode of transmission for Salmonella typhi?

A) Airborne droplets

B) Blood transfusion

C) Fecal-oral route

D) Insect bites

4. What is the recommended antibiotic treatment for uncomplicated typhoid fever in this patient?

A) Amoxicillin

B) Ciprofloxacin

C) Doxycycline

D) Azithromycin

Reveal answers

Answers

1. B) Typhoid Fever

2. C) Rose spots on the abdomen

3. C) Fecal-oral route

4. B) Ciprofloxacin