What Is Typhus?
Reviewed: Dr. Gromatzky
4. How Is Typhus Diagnosed?
Diagnosing typhus is difficult because it presents like several other conditions, like malaria, dengue and brucellosis. To assist in a diagnosis, your doctor may ask about your living arrangements, travel and any knowledge of pre-existing outbreaks in your community. After receiving this medical history, your doctor can conduct a basic physical exam, including blood draws.
Beyond the oral history and physical exam, your doctor may perform a battery of tests to diagnose typhus. An immunofluorescence test is often used to detect the typhus antigen in the blood. Your physician may also conduct a skin biopsy on your rash. A Western blot test and other blood tests may help your doctor come to a diagnosis and treatment plan.
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