Leptospirosis meningitis transmission from a pet mouse: a case report

Area of Science:

• Zoonotic diseases
• Infectious diseases
• Neurology

Background:

• Leptospirosis is a reemerging zoonotic disease with global distribution.
• It presents with diverse clinical manifestations.
• Pet rodents can be potential sources of infection.

Observation:

• A previously healthy woman with pet mice developed fever, headache, and jaundice.
• Clinical examination revealed neck stiffness, conjunctivitis, and icterus.
• Cerebrospinal fluid analysis showed elevated white blood cells.

Findings:

• Polymerase chain reaction tests for leptospirosis were negative.
• Microagglutination test confirmed Leptospira interrogans serovar sejroe infection.
• Patient successfully treated with ceftriaxone.

Implications:

• Pet rodents pose a risk for leptospirosis transmission.
• Leptospirosis meningitis should be considered in patients with meningeal symptoms and rodent exposure.
• This case emphasizes zoonotic disease awareness in clinical practice.