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Published on: July 1, 2011
Efficacy of ciprofloxacin against Leptospira interrogans serogroup icterohaemorrhagiae
1Tel-Aviv Medical Center, Sackler School of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Israel.
Abstract:
Ciprofloxacin activity against Leptospira interrogans serogroup icterohaemorrhagiae was studied in vitro and in an animal model. The MBC of ciprofloxacin was 0.6 microgram/ml. Three of three Syrian hamsters died 8 to 9 days after intraperitoneal challenge with 10(6) leptospires. In contrast, five of six animals given ciprofloxacin 3 or 5 days after challenge survived.
Insights
Ciprofloxacin effectively treated Leptospira interrogans infections in a hamster model when administered early. This antibiotic shows promise for controlling this serious bacterial disease.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Leptospira interrogans serogroup icterohaemorrhagiae is a significant bacterial pathogen.
- Understanding effective antimicrobial treatments is crucial for managing leptospirosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the in vitro and in vivo efficacy of ciprofloxacin against Leptospira interrogans.
- To determine the minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of ciprofloxacin for this pathogen.
Main Methods:
- In vitro susceptibility testing to determine the MBC of ciprofloxacin.
- An animal model using Syrian hamsters challenged with L. interrogans.
- Administration of ciprofloxacin at different time points post-infection in hamsters.
Main Results:
- The minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of ciprofloxacin against L. interrogans was determined to be 0.6 microgram/ml.
- Hamsters infected with L. interrogans had a high mortality rate (3/3) when untreated.
- Early administration of ciprofloxacin (3 or 5 days post-challenge) resulted in a high survival rate (5/6 hamsters).
Conclusions:
- Ciprofloxacin exhibits potent in vitro activity against Leptospira interrogans.
- Early treatment with ciprofloxacin significantly improves survival rates in a murine model of leptospirosis.
- Ciprofloxacin represents a potential therapeutic option for leptospirosis.
