Case report: A case of sepsis caused by rickettsial infection-induced hemophagocytic syndrome

Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) is a rare histiocytic disorder characterized by reactive hyperplasia of the mononuclear phagocytic system, which primarily caused dysfunction cytotoxic killer cells and natural cells, leading to antigen clearance barriers overactivation system due continuous stimulation. HLH encompasses group clinical syndromes marked overproduction inflammatory cytokines. A 68-year-old Chinese man presented with persistent fever, chills, nausea, vomiting; patient had no history any underlying conditions. Laboratory investigations revealed decreased levels red blood white platelets, along reduced cell activity, increased CD25, hyperferritinemia, detection Rickettsia DNA in his blood, meeting diagnostic criteria Histiocyte Society HLH-2004 guidelines. The was treated antibiotics, improving anemia, glucocorticoid therapy, renal replacement therapy (CRRT), temporarily condition. However, died after 2 years from chronic failure septic shock.