The first step in getting correct treatment is to get a correct diagnosis. Differential diagnosis list for Ehrlichiosis may include:
Doxycycline (100 mg twice daily for adults or 4.4 mg/kg body weight per day in two divided doses for children under 45.4 kgs (100 lbs)) is the drug of choice for patients with ehrlichiosis. The optimal duration of therapy has not been established, but current regimens recommend continuation of treatment for at least 3 days after the fever subsides and until evidence of clinical improvement, for a minimum total course of 5 to 7 days. Severe or complicated disease may require longer treatment courses. Because tetracyclines are contraindicated in pregnancy, rifampin has been used successfully in a limited number of pregnant women with documented HGE. (Source: excerpt from Ehrlichiosis: Treatment: DVRD)
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Ehrlichiosis is treated with tetracycline or doxycycline, producing rapid improvement when used early in the disease's course. Death can occur if treatment is delayed.
PEDIATRIC TIP Oral tetracycline usually isn’t prescribed for children until all permanent teeth have erupted because it can permanently discolor teeth that are still forming.
Supportive therapy is provided to help relieve signs and symptoms.
Source: Professional Guide to Diseases (Eighth Edition), 2005
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