Rats! Hantavirus: A Case Report of a Suspected Case in Eastern Tennessee

Creator(s)

Lindsey C. Shipley, The University of Alabama at Birmingham
S. Trevor Taylor, Medical Student at the East Tennessee State University James H Quillen College of Medicine in Johnson City
Christina Grimsley, Medical Student at the East Tennessee State University James H Quillen College of Medicine in Johnson City
Kevin Stoffer, Medical Student at the East Tennessee State University James H Quillen College of Medicine in Johnson City
Jack Goldstein, Professor of Internal Medicine at the East Tennessee State University James H Quillen College of Medicine in Johnson CityFollow

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

7-19-2018

Description

INTRODUCTION: Hantavirus is an RNA virus that is transmitted to humans by inhalation of aerosolized excrement from infected rodents. This case report demonstrates the value of taking a thorough social history and highlights the challenges associated with early diagnosis of this viral infection. CASE PRESENTATION: We highlight a case of suspected hantavirus infection with subtle gastrointestinal and pulmonary symptoms that challenged the initial diagnosis. DISCUSSION: Efforts are needed to improve clinical recognition and rapid detection of hantavirus infections, to reduce associated mortality. In a patient presenting with gastrointestinal prodromal symptoms followed by cardiopulmonary findings, physicians should pay special attention to that patient's living conditions and maintain a high index of suspicion for hantavirus infection. Early diagnosis is critical to prevent rapid deterioration to hantavirus pulmonary syndrome in some patients.

Citation Information

Shipley, Lindsey C.; Taylor, S. Trevor; Grimsley, Christina; Stoffer, Kevin; and Goldstein, Jack. 2018. Rats! Hantavirus: A Case Report of a Suspected Case in Eastern Tennessee. The Permanente journal. Vol.22 https://doi.org/10.7812/TPP/17-222 PMID: 30010530