Diagnosis and management of zoonoses - a tool for general practice

Aust Fam Physician. 2014 Mar;43(3):124-8.

Abstract

Background: Zoonotic infections such as Q fever, brucellosis and leptospirosis can lead to serious complications but pose diagnostic and management challenges to general practitioners (GPs) as patients often present with non-specific symptoms such as fever.

Objective: To develop a tool to assist GPs in the diagnosis and management of common zoonotic infections

Discussion: An algorithm was developed with advice and comments from GPs, laboratory specialists and infectious disease specialists. Emphasis is placed on understanding patient risk factors, such as non-household contact with animals, excluding other possible causes of fever, such as influenza, and commencing empirical treatment as soon as a zoonotic infection is suspected. The algorithm is not exhaustive and GPs are urged to consult infectious disease specialists and medical microbiologists for further guidance if required.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Algorithms*
  • Animals
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / therapeutic use
  • Australia / epidemiology
  • Brucellosis / diagnosis
  • Brucellosis / drug therapy
  • General Practice*
  • Humans
  • Leptospirosis / diagnosis
  • Leptospirosis / drug therapy
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Q Fever / diagnosis
  • Q Fever / drug therapy
  • Zoonoses / diagnosis*
  • Zoonoses / drug therapy*
  • Zoonoses / epidemiology

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents