Scarlet fever in Iran during the Qajar period (1796 to 1925 AD): a brief historical review
Historical review published in Arch Iran Med (2025)
Abstract
Scarlet fever, known in Persian as "Tab-e Sorkh," is a bacterial infection caused by Streptococcus pyogenes. During the Qajar era (1796-1925), it was often deadly and reached pandemic levels in the 19th century. Both traditional Iranian and European medicine described its symptoms, but few comparative studies exist. By analyzing historical Persian texts, European medical reports, and modern literature, this study compares how the disease was understood and treated. Symptoms like rash and fever were widely recognized, and mortality was high before antibiotics. Traditional treatments followed humoral theory, including herbal remedies and bloodletting. Outbreaks peaked in cold months, mostly affecting children aged 5-15 years - a pattern seen in both medical systems. From the 1820s to 1880s, scarlet fever caused global outbreaks, especially in Iran. This research shows how combining historical perspectives can deepen our understanding of infectious diseases and their treatment across time.
Abstract sourced from PubMed (NCBI) for the cited record. See the original publication for the authoritative version.
Resumen
Historical review of scarlet fever in Iran during the Qajar period including traditional bloodletting/leech-therapy practices.
Por qué esto importa para la hirudoterapia
This historical article reviews the understanding and treatment of scarlet fever in Iran during the Qajar period, noting that traditional treatments followed humoral theory and included practices such as herbal remedies and bloodletting. While bloodletting is an ancient practice historically associated with the use of medicinal leeches, the abstract does not explicitly mention hirudotherapy or leeches as a specific treatment modality for scarlet fever in this region. The study holds only indirect, historical relevance to the American Society of Hirudotherapy by touching upon the broader historical context of bloodletting. Its scope is strictly historical and lacks any clinical or scientific data on leech therapy.
Citación
Scarlet fever in Iran during the Qajar period (1796 to 1925 AD): a brief historical review.
Golshani et al. · Archives of Iranian medicine, 2025
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Añadido a la biblioteca ASH: May 27, 2026 · Última actualización del sitio: June 18, 2026