A fatal case of Severe Fever with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome (SFTS): Early morphological clues in peripheral blood and lessons for clinical alert.

This report details the first rapid diagnosis of severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS) at our institution using peripheral blood morphology and highlights its key hematological features for early detection. A 59-year-old male farmer was admitted with chills, fever, and diarrhea lasting 8 days. Diagnosis was confirmed using blood tests and next-generation sequencing. Within 24 h, lab tests revealed key diagnostic clues, including abnormal blood counts and distinctive cell morphology. Despite aggressive treatment, the patient's condition worsened, leading to clinical death. In summary, SFTS is a deadly infection with high mortality. In endemic areas, quick screening of suspected cases using peripheral blood morphology by knowledgeable lab staff can lead to early diagnosis and timely treatment, essential for better clinical outcomes.