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Severe leptospirosis infection in a non-epidemic area
Rioto Suzuki1, Mari Terayama1, Minoru Tanda1
1Iwate Prefecture Advanced Critical Care and Emergency Center, Iwate Medical University, Japan.
Abstract:
A 39-year-old man visited our hospital with lower leg pain and fever. We suspected sepsis because of an infectious disease. He was hospitalized, and treatment was initiated. After admission, we received information that mice were present in his living environment. Moreover, we considered leptospirosis in the differential diagnosis and started the administration of ceftriaxone and minocycline. On the 10th day after admission, after examination by the National Institute on Infectious Diseases, we diagnosed him with leptospirosis. The patient was transferred to the hospital for rehabilitation on day 23 after admission. It is important to consider leptospirosis even in non-epidemic area.
Insights
A man with fever and leg pain was diagnosed with leptospirosis, a bacterial infection. Early consideration of leptospirosis is crucial, even outside of typical outbreak areas.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Bacteriology
- Public Health
Background:
- Sepsis is a life-threatening response to infection.
- Leptospirosis is a bacterial zoonotic disease transmitted through contact with contaminated water or soil.
- Rodents are common reservoirs for Leptospira bacteria.
Observation:
- A 39-year-old man presented with fever and lower leg pain.
- The patient's living environment had a mouse infestation.
- Initial suspicion for sepsis was broadened to include leptospirosis.
Findings:
- The patient was diagnosed with leptospirosis on day 10 of hospitalization.
- Treatment included ceftriaxone and minocycline.
- The patient was discharged for rehabilitation on day 23.
Implications:
- Leptospirosis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of febrile illnesses, even in non-epidemic regions.
- Environmental factors, such as rodent presence, can indicate potential exposure risks.
- Prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential for favorable patient outcomes.
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