Herxheimer Reaction

The Herxheimer reaction, also known as the Jarisch-Herxheimer reaction, is a temporary worsening of the symptoms of an infectious disease shortly after starting treatment with antibiotics.

This reaction was first described in 1895 by Austrian dermatologists Adolf Jarisch and Karl Herxheimer in patients with syphilis who were prescribed mercury drugs. However, it was later shown that the Herxheimer reaction can occur in the treatment of many bacterial, viral, fungal and protozoal infections.

The mechanism of development of the reaction is associated with the massive death of the infectious agent under the influence of antibiotics and the release of bacterial toxins and antigens that cause an inflammatory reaction. The Herxheimer reaction usually develops within a few hours or days of starting antibiotic therapy and is manifested by an increase in symptoms such as fever, chills, headache, and myalgia.

Although this reaction may be an alarming symptom for the patient, it is usually a sign that antibiotic therapy is working and is temporary. Antipyretic medications may be used to relieve symptoms of a Herxheimer reaction.

The Herxheimer reaction is a reaction that occurs in the human body when treating syphilis. It is named after the German physician Hermann Herxheimer, who first described it in 1907.

The Herxheimer reaction is one of the symptoms of syphilis and occurs because the body begins to fight the bacteria that cause the disease. As a result of this fight, the body produces antibodies that can cause inflammation in various organs and tissues.

Symptoms of a Herxheimer reaction may include fever, headache, muscle pain, skin rash, and other symptoms that depend on the location of the inflammation. Sometimes the Herxheimer reaction can be very severe and cause serious complications such as encephalitis or meningitis.

Treatment for Herxheimer's reaction involves taking antibiotics to help kill the bacteria that causes syphilis. In addition, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and other medications are used to reduce the symptoms of the Herxheimer reaction.

It is important to note that the Herxheimer reaction is not a sign of syphilis, but only a symptom that occurs in response to treatment for the disease. Therefore, if you suspect syphilis, you should consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.