Retrospective Analysis of Chronic Q Fever Cases at a Tertiary Care Center From 2007 to 2023.

Abstract

Background Chronic Q fever, caused by Coxiella burnetii, presents significant diagnostic and management challenges due to its variable presentation and high morbidity, especially among patients with underlying cardiac or vascular disease. In the United States, cases are rising, often without identifiable exposures, and diagnostic delays remain common. Methods We conducted a retrospective cohort study of chronic Q fever cases at the Mayo Clinic from 2007 to 2023. Patients with clinical evidence and a phase I IgG titer ≥1:1024 and/or positive polymerase chain reaction for C burnetii were included. Data were abstracted from electronic health records, including demographics, exposures, clinical manifestations, diagnostics, treatments, and outcomes. Statistical analyses assessed factors influencing diagnostic delay and treatment response. Results We identified 33 patients with chronic Q fever (median age 56; 88% male). Median time to diagnosis was 99 days, with 11.4 days between infectious diseases evaluation and diagnosis. Animal exposure was reported in 17 patients (52%), while 8 (24%) had no identifiable exposure. Patients primarily presented with prosthetic valve endocarditis (n = 14, 42%) or vascular graft infection (n = 9, 27%). The majority were treated with doxycycline and hydroxychloroquine (n = 25, 75%), and 14 patients (42%) required surgical intervention. Mortality attributable to chronic Q fever was 6% (n = 2). Conclusions Chronic Q fever remains under-recognized, with substantial diagnostic delays prior to treatment. Cardiovascular infection predominates, and surgical intervention is often required despite prolonged antimicrobial therapy. Early specialist evaluation and standardized diagnostic pathways may improve outcomes.