Relapsing Fever: New Lessons About Antibiotic Action

Excerpt

Antimicrobial drugs in widespread use are assumed to be beneficial for many infections. Although untoward effects, including toxic and allergic reactions, have been emphasized, the possible exacerbation of the disease against which the drug is used is less well known. This kind of reaction is exemplified by the Jarisch-Herxheimer reaction and occurs commonly after treatment of syphilis and relapsing fever. It is important that physicians be aware of the reaction because some patients after receiving antibiotic treatment will worsen before they are cured. Recent research on relapsing fever has clarified the nature of this reaction.

Caused by spirochetal bacteria belonging