Which are the symptoms of Carrion's Disease / Oroya Fever?

Carrion's Disease, also known as Oroya Fever, is a bacterial infection caused by the bacterium Bartonella bacilliformis. It is primarily found in the Andean valleys of Peru, Ecuador, and Colombia, where it is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected sandflies.

The symptoms of Carrion's Disease can be divided into two distinct phases: the acute phase and the chronic phase.

Acute Phase:

The acute phase of Carrion's Disease typically occurs within one to four weeks after the initial infection. During this phase, patients may experience:

• Fever: One of the hallmark symptoms of Carrion's Disease is a high fever, often exceeding 39°C (102°F). The fever may be intermittent or continuous.


• Anemia: The infection leads to severe destruction of red blood cells, resulting in anemia. This can cause weakness, fatigue, and pale skin.


• Headache and body aches: Patients may experience severe headaches, muscle, and joint pain.


• Enlarged lymph nodes: Swollen lymph nodes, particularly in the armpits and groin, are common during the acute phase.


• Skin lesions: Some individuals may develop skin lesions, which can range from small, red bumps to large, painful nodules. These lesions may ulcerate and become prone to secondary infections.


• Hepatosplenomegaly: The liver and spleen may become enlarged, leading to abdominal pain and tenderness.


• Respiratory symptoms: In some cases, patients may experience respiratory symptoms such as cough, difficulty breathing, and chest pain.

Chronic Phase:

If left untreated, Carrion's Disease progresses to the chronic phase, which typically occurs several weeks after the acute phase. The chronic phase is characterized by:

• Verruga peruana: The most distinctive feature of the chronic phase is the development of skin lesions known as verruga peruana. These lesions are wart-like growths that can vary in size and appearance. They may be red, purple, or brown and can occur anywhere on the body.


• Secondary infections: The skin lesions in the chronic phase are prone to secondary infections, which can cause pain, inflammation, and discharge.


• Bone pain: Some individuals may experience bone pain, especially in the long bones.


• Weight loss: Chronic Carrion's Disease can lead to significant weight loss and malnutrition.


• Cardiovascular complications: In severe cases, the infection can affect the cardiovascular system, leading to heart murmurs, palpitations, and even heart failure.

If left untreated, Carrion's Disease can be life-threatening, especially during the acute phase. Prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment with antibiotics are crucial to prevent complications and reduce mortality rates.