Leptospirosis
Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection caused by the Leptospira bacterium, primarily prevalent in warm, tropical environments. The infection can affect any part of the body and is contracted through contact with contaminated water, soil, or vegetation, particularly where urine from infected animals is present. High-risk groups include outdoor enthusiasts, agricultural workers, those who handle animals, and individuals in flood-prone areas. Symptoms typically emerge about ten days post-exposure and may include fever, headache, pain, nausea, and conjunctivitis, among others. Diagnosis involves a physical examination and laboratory tests to detect antibodies against the bacteria. Treatment mainly consists of antibiotics, which can lead to a good prognosis if administered promptly. Preventative measures focus on reducing exposure to potentially contaminated environments and wearing protective gear in high-risk settings. If left untreated, leptospirosis can lead to severe complications, making awareness and early intervention crucial.
Leptospirosis
- ANATOMY OR SYSTEM AFFECTED: All
- ALSO KNOWN AS: Cane-cutter fever, canicola fever, hemorrhagic jaundice, icterohemorrhagic fever, mud fever, rice-field fever, Stuttgart disease, swamp fever, swineherd’s disease, Weil’s disease
Definition
Leptospirosis is a rare and contagious bacterial infection caused by the bacterium Leptospira. Leptospirosis is most common in warm, tropical conditions and can affect any part of the body. With prompt and proper treatment, prognosis is usually good. If untreated, complications may develop that can potentially be fatal.
Causes
Leptospirosis is caused by contact with fresh water, wet or dampened soil, or vegetation that has been soiled by urine from an infected animal. When contact is made with the contaminated material, bacteria enter the body through open sores or wounds in the skin or mucous membranes. Humans can also contract leptospirosis by drinking water that has been contaminated by the urine of an infected animal. Once the bacteria have entered the body, they flow into the bloodstream and throughout the body, causing infection.
Risk Factors
Anyone can contract leptospirosis, but people who are at an increased risk are canoeists, rafters, swimmers (in lakes, rivers, and streams); workers in flood plains; workers in wet agricultural settings; people who have pets (particularly dogs or livestock); people who work with the land (including farmers, ranchers, loggers, and rice-field workers); and people, including veterinarians and veterinary staff, who work with animals.
Symptoms
Symptoms typically appear about ten days after infection and include one or more of the following: sudden fever, rigors, pain, and headache; dry cough; nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea; conjunctivitis (pinkeye); aching joints; sore throat; painful bones; abdominal pain; enlarged spleen, liver, or lymph glands; rigid muscles; and a rash on the skin.
Screening and Diagnosis
A doctor will ask about symptoms and medical history and perform a physical exam. Tests may include a blood test to determine the presence of antibodies to the Leptospira bacterium, as well as cultures or other laboratory tests.
Treatment and Therapy
Treatment options include medications such as antibiotics, including penicillin, tetracycline, chloramphenicol, and erythromycin.
Prevention and Outcomes
To help reduce the chance of getting leptospirosis, one should reduce contact with soil, vegetation, and water that could possibly be contaminated with infected animal urine, including urine from rodents. If working with materials that could be contaminated, one should wear protective clothing, including waterproof boots or waders, that covers the skin. Persons working in an especially high-risk area should consult a doctor about beginning antibiotic treatment before potential exposure.
Bibliography
"About Leptospirosis." CDC, 24 June 2024, www.cdc.gov/leptospirosis/about/index.html. Accessed 10 Nov. 2024.
Forbes, Betty A., Daniel F. Sahm, and Alice S. Weissfeld. Bailey and Scott’s Diagnostic Microbiology. 12th ed., Mosby/Elsevier, 2007.
"Leptospirosis." Cleveland Clinic, 16 Aug. 2022, my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/24021-leptospirosis. Accessed 10 Nov. 2024.
Ryan, Kenneth J., and C. George Ray, editors. Sherris Medical Microbiology: An Introduction to Infectious Diseases. 5th ed., McGraw-Hill, 2010.
Wang, Sicong, and Noel Dunn. "Leptospirosis - StatPearls." NCBI, 10 Sept. 2024, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK441858. Accessed 10 Nov. 2024.