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Leptospirosis and renal failure: a case series
Martin Windpessl1, Wolfgang Prammer, Roland Nömeyer
1Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine IV, Klinikum Wels-Grieskirchen, Grieskirchnerstrasse 42, 4600, Wels, Austria, martin.windpessl@gmx.net.
Wiener Klinische Wochenschrift
|February 6, 2014
Summary
Severe leptospirosis, a zoonotic disease, can manifest in various ways and requires a high index of suspicion for diagnosis. This case series highlights kidney injury and diagnostic challenges, even in low-risk areas.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Nephrology
- Zoonotic Diseases
Background:
- Leptospirosis is a widespread zoonotic disease with diverse clinical presentations.
- Human infections often result from exposure to contaminated water or soil.
- Leisure and household activities are emerging risk factors in developed nations.
Observation:
- Five unrelated cases of severe, autochthonous leptospirosis were observed within a short period.
- Three patients required temporary dialysis due to acute kidney injury.
- Patients presented with varied symptoms, necessitating admissions to internal medicine and neurology units.
Findings:
- The study details the clinical course of these severe leptospirosis cases.
- It provides an overview of organ involvement, focusing on kidney injury.
- Diagnostic challenges and pitfalls associated with leptospirosis are discussed.
Implications:
- A high index of suspicion is crucial for diagnosing leptospirosis, especially in regions considered low-risk.
- The protean manifestations of leptospirosis can mimic other conditions, complicating diagnosis.
- Early recognition and diagnosis are vital for managing severe cases and preventing complications like kidney failure.
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