Acute Q Fever Presenting with Multi-Organ Failure: Re-Evaluation of the Initial Diagnosis

We present the case of a 48-year-old man admitted to the critical care unit with atrial fibrillation, and acute heart and kidney failure accompanied by coagulopathy and an abnormal liver test. Initially diagnosed as a non-ST elevation myocardial infarction, re-evaluation of the case led to the consideration of severe sepsis. Q fever and leptospirosis were the most probable causes and empiric treatment was initiated. A complete recovery was achieved following treatment. LEARNING POINTS: Epidemiological antecedents of interest must always be collected in the clinical record. Acute Q fever infection may be mild or present with multiple organ damage. Empiric treatment with doxycycline must be started when Q fever is suspected.