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A Murine Model of Dengue Virus-induced Acute Viral Encephalitis-like Disease
Published on: April 28, 2019
Leptospirosis presenting as acute meningoencephalitis
Sanjeev Jha1, Mohd Khateebullah Ansari
1Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow, UP, India. drsjha@rediffmail.com
Journal of Infection in Developing Countries
|March 31, 2010
Summary
Leptospirosis, a zoonotic disease, is frequently under-diagnosed, particularly with neurological symptoms, leading to severe illness. Early consideration of leptospirosis is crucial for patients with hepato-renal, pulmonary, and nervous system involvement.
Area of Science:
- Zoonotic diseases
- Infectious diseases
- Neurology
Background:
- Leptospirosis is a common zoonotic disease with potential for severe outcomes.
- Neurological manifestations of leptospirosis are often overlooked, leading to delayed diagnosis and treatment.
- Patients with neurological symptoms are frequently misdiagnosed with other conditions like cerebral malaria or viral encephalitis.
Observation:
- This case report details a patient with significant hepato-renal, pulmonary, and nervous system involvement.
- The patient's complex presentation mimicked other serious illnesses, complicating the diagnostic process.
- Diagnostic challenges were compounded by limited resources and diagnostic support.
Findings:
- Leptospirosis should be considered in the differential diagnosis for patients presenting with multi-system involvement, including neurological features.
- Awareness of uncommon presentations of leptospirosis is vital for accurate and timely diagnosis.
- Prompt recognition can prevent severe morbidity and mortality associated with under-diagnosed leptospirosis.
Implications:
- Clinicians should maintain a high index of suspicion for leptospirosis in endemic areas, especially with atypical presentations.
- Improved diagnostic strategies and awareness are needed to address the under-diagnosis of leptospirosis.
- Considering leptospirosis in patients with hepato-renal, pulmonary, and neurological symptoms can lead to better patient outcomes.
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