Final answer:
Doxycycline is the firstline treatment for Rocky Mountain spotted fever, a tick-borne disease. Chloramphenicol serves as a secondary option if doxycycline is contraindicated. Early treatment is essential for optimal outcomes.
Step-by-step explanation:
The firstline treatment for Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF), a disease caused by Rickettsia rickettsii and transmitted via tick bites, is the antibiotic doxycycline. If doxycycline is contraindicated, such as in certain cases involving young children or pregnant women, chloramphenicol may be used as a second choice. Diagnosis of RMSF includes observation of symptoms, laboratory tests like PCR for Rickettsia rickettsii, fluorescent antibody staining of a biopsy from the rash, and serologic testing. It is critical to start treatment for RMSF as soon as it is suspected, even without laboratory confirmation, due to the rapid progression and potential severity of the disease.