What are rickettsial diseases?
Rickettsial disease encompasses a group of diseases caused by the microorganisms rickettsiae. Rickettsiae occupy a position between bacteria and viruses. They can only survive inside cells. Rickettsial diseases vary considerably in severity from self-limiting mild illnesses to severe life-threatening infections, particularly if complications arise. The organisms cause disease by damaging blood vessels in various tissues and organs. In severe cases multiple tissues and organs are affected. Because these diseases are potentially serious, you must seek urgent medical attention if there is any suspicion that you may have one of these infections.
