Relapsing fever

Pronunciation
/REH-lap-sing FIV-er/
Category
Disease
Singular
Relapsing fever
Plural
Relapsing fevers

Definition

A disease characterized by recurring bouts of fever, often accompanied by other symptoms such as chills, headache, fatigue, and muscle aches. It is caused by spirochetes (bacteria) transmitted by ticks.

Etymology

The term refers to the cyclical nature of the fever, which comes and goes in waves.

Example

Relapsing fever is a serious tick-borne illness that can cause severe complications if left untreated.

Related Terms

  • Ticks
  • Borrelia
  • Spirochetes
  • Fever