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A Fish Farmer's Encounter With Leptospirosis: A Case Report
Hamza Rashid1, Ayooluwa K Omoloye2, Siraj Y Abualnaja1
1Medicine, Peterborough City Hospital, Peterborough, GBR.
Cureus
|November 6, 2023
Summary
Leptospirosis, a bacterial zoonotic disease, can cause severe illness. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment, especially considering occupational exposure, are crucial for preventing rapid deterioration in patients.
Area of Science:
- Medical Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Zoonotic Infections
Background:
- Leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease caused by *Leptospira* bacteria, transmitted through infected animals or contaminated environments.
- While prevalent in developing nations, its incidence in the UK is notably low, at 0.14 cases per 100,000 population.
Observation:
- A 56-year-old fish farmer presented with acute thigh pain, immobility, flu-like symptoms, fever, and dark urine.
- Initial investigations revealed acute kidney injury, hepatitis, thrombocytopenia, mild rhabdomyolysis, and elevated inflammatory markers.
Findings:
- Prompt treatment with intravenous antibiotics and rehydration led to rapid clinical improvement.
- Diagnosis was confirmed by positive *Leptospira* polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and serology.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of detailed clinical history, including occupational exposure, for diagnosing leptospirosis in developed countries.
- A low clinical threshold for suspecting leptospirosis is vital to ensure timely intervention and prevent severe complications.
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