Severe Leptospirosis: A Case Report

Abstract

Leptospirosis is an infection caused by Leptospira. Leptospirosis causes disease in humans mainly in developing countries and also in countries with poor housing and sanitation, due to animals (mainly rats) that are potential sources of contamination. The clinical manifestations and the severity of leptospirosis are highly variable.We present the case of a 56-year-old female that was admitted to the emergency department with a threeweek history of fever (38.4ºC), headache, dyspnea, and cough. There was a worsening of the patient's clinical status with respiratory failure and the necessity of admission to the intensive care unit for respiratory support with mechanical ventilation. The treatment was initiated with piperacillin and tazobactam, azithromycin, and steroids. There was a favorable evolution, and the patient was transferred to the internal medicine ward after 12 days with a suspected diagnosis of small vessel vasculitis and pneumonia. In the medical ward, after a careful anamnesis, leptospirosis was suspected and confirmed.The aim of this case report is to highlight the importance of a good anamnesis and the fact that an elaborate clinical history helps to consider new diagnostic hypotheses. Also intends to alert to the existence of leptospirosis in developed countries, a disease underdiagnosed in these countries.

Leptospirosis-Induced Septic Shock and Multi-Organ Dysfunction Syndrome: A Complex Case of Zoonotic Infection in a Young Female Patient

“…As early diagnosis allows for the timely initiation of appropriate interventions, it is crucial in managing multiorgan failure [ 4 ]. When evaluating the potential causes of sepsis in patients presenting with positive systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) criteria, it is essential to consider leptospirosis as a possible etiology, particularly in locations where the disease is endemic [ 5 ]. Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection caused by the Leptospira genus, which can affect multiple organ systems in the body.…”

Falciparum Malaria, Leptospirosis, and Vibrio mimicus Encephalitis in a Resilient Patient: A Remarkable Case of Triple Infection Survival

“…However, a delayed start to guided therapy and potentially avoidable excess mortality occurs when acute leptospirosis coinfection is not recognized. As a result, the proper application of antibiotics, under the direction of clinical judgment, is crucial and cannot be replaced by adjunct therapies [ 7 ].…”

“…Additionally, the IgM ELISA test can detect a positive result as early as two days after infection, making an early diagnosis easier. It has been found to be 93% specific and 100% sensitive in some studies [ 7 ].…”

“…Additionally, the IgM ELISA test can detect a positive result as early as two days after infection, making an early diagnosis easier. It has been found to be 93% specific and 100% sensitive in some studies[7].Water bacteria known as Vibrio species are typically found in brackish or marine environments. Vibrio cholerae, Vibrio vulnificus, and Vibrio parahaemolyticus are the three Vibrio species that are most frequently linked to human infections.…”