17. c. Leptospirosis Interrogans Flashcards
How does leptospirosis get into the body?
Breaks in skin
Cross intact mucous membranes
in contact with infected urine
What damage can leptospirosis cause in the kidneys?
Inflammation and necrosis of tubules
What damage can leptospirosis cause in the lungs?
Intra-alveolar haemorrhage
What damage can leptospirosis cause in the liver?
Damage to hepatocytes
What is the incubation period of leptospirosis?
7-12 days
What are the risk factors for leptospirosis?
Contact with contaminated water or flooding season
What are the clinical features of a mild leptospirosis infection?
Spirochaetaemia that resolves after 5-7 days
What are the symptoms of spirochaetaemia?
Fever
Headache
Muscle pain
Conjunctivitis
What can leptospirosis progress to?
Aseptic meningitis
Weil’s disease
What bacteria is Weil’s disease associated with?
L. interrogans serovar icterohaemorrhagiae
What are the symptoms of Weil’s disease?
Headache, fever, rash, shock
Thrombocytopaenia and haemorrhage
Jaundice and kidney injury
What lab test is used to diagnose?
Serology
IgM is increased in acute infection
What samples can be used for PCR?
Blood early in illness
Urine
What is the treatment for a severe leptospirosis infection?
IV penicillin
What is the treatment for mild leptospirosis?
Oral amoxicillin or doxycycline
