A23.1

Clinical Causes: Contact with infected livestock, especially cattle that carry Brucella abortus Consumption of unpasteurized dairy products such as milk, cheese, or yogurt derived from infected animals Inhalation of airborne bacteria in settings with infected animals or animal products Manual handling or slaughtering of infected animals or animal tissues Rarely, through blood transfusions or organ transplants from infected donors

Key Symptoms: Fever that persists or recurs over weeks or months Sweating, especially at night Fatigue and weakness Muscle and joint aches Loss of appetite and weight loss Headaches Swelling of the lymph nodes, liver, or spleen In some cases, symptoms may become chronic, leading to long-term health issues

Diagnosis Path: Diagnosis involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and laboratory tests. Blood tests such as serology to detect Brucella antibodies, blood cultures to identify the bacteria, and other molecular techniques are commonly used. Imaging studies may be conducted if complications are suspected. Accurate diagnosis is essential for effective management and to prevent complications.

Treatment Protocols: Treatment usually involves a prolonged course of antibiotic therapy to eliminate the infection. Common medications include doxycycline combined with rifampin or streptomycin. It's important to complete the full course of antibiotics to prevent relapse. Supportive care, including rest and hydration, is recommended to help manage symptoms. In chronic cases or complicated infections, additional medical interventions may be necessary. Prevention focuses on avoiding exposure to infected animals and contaminated products, including pasteurization of dairy and proper animal handling practices.