Rift Valley Fever Evaluation

The evaluation of Rift Valley fever begins with a medical history and physical examination.

Physical findings in someone with Rift Valley fever may include:

• Rash
• Lymph node swelling
• Fever
• Brudzinski sign:
• Bending of the neck causes the hips and knees to bend
• Kernig sign:
• Extending the knees with the hips flexed causes pain and muscle spasms
• Papilledema:
• Increased pressure in the eyes
• Lethargy:
• Excessive sleepiness
• Confusion

Tests may be necessary to make the diagnosis of Rift Valley fever.

Tests that may be used to evaluate Rift Valley fever include:

• Spinal tap
• This is the most important test to diagnose meningitis or encephalitis
• Encephalitis or meningitis may cause the spinal fluid to become cloudy
• Blood cultures
• Complete blood count
• Blood serology:
• Blood test that identifies the virus.

Less commonly used tests that may be used to evaluate Rift Valley fever include:

• CT scan of the brain
• MRI scan of the brain

Last Updated: Jan 4, 2011 References
Authors: Stephen J. Schueler, MD; John H. Beckett, MD; D. Scott Gettings, MD
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