Which of the following symptoms is unlikely to be associated with Q fever?

Which of the following symptoms is unlikely to be associated with Q fever?

• A. Pneumonia
• B. Severe abdominal pain
• C. Jaundice
• D. Fever

Answer: (C)

Q fever, caused by the bacterium Coxiella burnetii, typically presents with a range of symptoms. Among the options provided, jaundice is the symptom that is least likely to be associated with Q fever. This disease most commonly manifests through flu-like symptoms, including fever, chills, and fatigue. Respiratory involvement can lead to pneumonia, making pneumonia a common symptom. Patients often report severe abdominal pain as well, particularly if they develop the more severe form of the disease, which can involve hepatitis. In contrast, jaundice, which indicates liver dysfunction or bile duct obstruction, is not a common feature of Q fever. While liver involvement can occur in some cases, it does not typically present with jaundice as the primary symptom, making it the least characteristic symptom among those listed. Understanding these associations helps in recognizing and diagnosing Q fever effectively in clinical practice.

Q fever, caused by the bacterium Coxiella burnetii, typically presents with a range of symptoms. Among the options provided, jaundice is the symptom that is least likely to be associated with Q fever.

This disease most commonly manifests through flu-like symptoms, including fever, chills, and fatigue. Respiratory involvement can lead to pneumonia, making pneumonia a common symptom. Patients often report severe abdominal pain as well, particularly if they develop the more severe form of the disease, which can involve hepatitis.

In contrast, jaundice, which indicates liver dysfunction or bile duct obstruction, is not a common feature of Q fever. While liver involvement can occur in some cases, it does not typically present with jaundice as the primary symptom, making it the least characteristic symptom among those listed. Understanding these associations helps in recognizing and diagnosing Q fever effectively in clinical practice.