Investigating the existing analytical methods deployed for leptospirosis detection and diagnostics.

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• Leptospirosis morbidity and mortality are rising globally, posing significant public health risks.
• Its zoonotic nature underscores the importance of the One Health framework for disease control.
• Early and specific detection is critical for timely treatment and improved patient outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To comprehensively review conventional and molecular methods for Leptospirosis detection.
• To specifically focus on and consolidate mass spectrometric techniques used for Leptospirosis diagnosis.
• To identify limitations and achievements of current diagnostic sophistication.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on diagnostic methods for Leptospirosis.
• Critical analysis of microscopic agglutination test (MAT), ELISA, PCR, LAMP, mass spectrometry (MS), and rapid diagnostic tests.
• Consolidation of mass spectrometry applications in Leptospirosis detection.

Main Results:

• Various diagnostic methods exist, each with limitations and strengths.
• Mass spectrometry shows potential but is underutilized for Leptospirosis detection.
• Current analytical expertise is not fully leveraged for effective disease diagnosis.

Conclusions:

• There is a need for rapid, simple, sensitive, and accurate early detection methods for Leptospirosis.
• Further development and application of techniques like mass spectrometry are recommended.
• Optimizing diagnostic strategies is essential to combat the increasing burden of Leptospirosis.