In simple words: Trench fever is an infection spread by lice. It causes recurring fevers, headaches, body aches, and sometimes a rash. People living in unsanitary conditions are at higher risk. Treatment usually involves antibiotics.

Trench fever, also known as Quintan fever or Wolhynian fever, is an infectious disease caused by the bacterium Bartonella quintana.It is typically spread by human body lice infestations, primarily affecting individuals living in unhygienic or crowded conditions.

Example 1: A homeless individual presents with recurring high fevers, severe headaches, pain behind the eyes, and diffuse muscle aches in the back and legs.Upon examination, body lice are noted.Laboratory tests confirm the presence of Bartonella quintana, indicating trench fever., A refugee living in overcrowded temporary housing reports several episodes of fever lasting a few days each, interspersed with periods of no fever. They also complain of generalized body aches and a mild rash.Given the living conditions and symptoms, trench fever is suspected, and diagnostic testing is performed., A soldier deployed in a region with poor sanitation experiences cyclical fevers, headaches, and fatigue.The medical team considers trench fever among the possible diagnoses and conducts tests to identify the causative agent.

Documentation should include patient history of potential exposure to body lice, living conditions, presenting symptoms (fever pattern, headache, body aches, rash), and laboratory test results confirming the presence of Bartonella quintana.