# Napoleon Bonaparte—A Possible Case of Trench Fever

## TL;DR

This paper suggests that Napoleon Bonaparte may have had trench fever, based on historical symptoms and environmental conditions.

## Contribution

The paper proposes a new historical medical diagnosis for Napoleon Bonaparte.

## Key findings

- Napoleon's symptoms align with those of trench fever.
- Poor hygiene and lice in barracks support the diagnosis.

## Abstract

In 1789, Napoleon Bonaparte reported having a recurrent febrile illness that initially subsided for 4 days and then had multiple relapses of similar duration. A speculative diagnosis of trench fever would be supported by poor hygiene conditions, prolonged exposure to cold, and the presence of lice in Napoleon’s barracks environment.