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Updated: Jun 14, 2026
06:05
Polymerase Chain Reaction and Dot-Blot Hybridization for Leptospira Detection in Water Samples
Published on: June 14, 2024
[Leptospirosis (Weil's disease) in Augsburg]
B Walter1, B Wein, M Bittinger
1Medizinische Klinik III, Zentralklinikum Augsburg, Augsburg. benjamin.walter@klinikum-augsburg.de
Deutsche Medizinische Wochenschrift (1946)
|April 2, 2010
Summary
Leptospirosis can cause jaundice and acute kidney injury. Early diagnosis via serology and prompt antibiotic treatment with penicillin G or ceftriaxone are crucial for favorable outcomes in Weil's disease.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Nephrology
- Hepatology
Background:
- Leptospirosis is a zoonotic infection with diverse clinical presentations.
- Jaundice and acute kidney injury are significant manifestations requiring differential diagnosis.
Observation:
- Three patients presented with jaundice of unknown origin.
- Two patients had active leptospirosis (Weil's disease) with jaundice, renal failure, and thrombocytopenia.
- One patient had drug-associated hepatitis following subsided leptospirosis.
Findings:
- Active leptospirosis was confirmed by serological tests in two patients.
- Laboratory results revealed elevated bilirubin, CK, BUN, creatinine, and low thrombocytes in active cases.
- Prompt treatment with penicillin G or ceftriaxone led to symptom resolution in active leptospirosis.
Implications:
- Leptospirosis should be considered in patients with unexplained jaundice and acute renal failure.
- Detailed patient history and serological testing are vital for accurate diagnosis.
- Timely antimicrobial therapy significantly impacts clinical outcomes in Weil's disease.
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