Rocky Mountain spotted fever An acute febrile (feverish) disease that was initially recognized in the Rocky Mountain states. Abbreviated RMSF. RMSF is caused by Rickettsia rickettsii, transmitted by hard-shelled (ixodid) ticks, and occurs only in the Western hemisphere. Anyone frequenting tickinfested areas is at risk for RMSF. Onset of symptoms is abrupt, with headache, high fever, chills, muscle pain, and then a rash. The rickettsiae grow within damaged cells lining blood vessels, which may become blocked by clots. Blood vessel inflammation (vasculitis) is widespread in a person with RMSF. Early recognition of RMSF and prompt antibiotic treatment is important to prevent death. Also known as spotted fever, tick fever, and tick typhus.

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