Tocilizumab as a Potential Treatment Option for Severe Fever with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome

Abstract

Severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS) is a viral hemorrhagic disease prevalent in Asian countries with a fatality rate of approximately 10% to 30%. However, there are currently no definitive treatments for reducing mortality. Variable management strategies have been attempted to reduce the mortality rate associated with SFTS. Tocilizumab is an inhibitor of interleukin-6 and is used to treat rheumatologic and viral infectious diseases. This article presents two cases of SFTS in older patients with neurological symptoms and explores the potential use of tocilizumab, as a treatment option. The patient showed improved consciousness and clinical outcomes after tocilizumab administration. This report describes this condition and reviews related literature.