[Rhabdomyolysis and kidney insufficiency in van Weil syndrome]

In two men, aged 20 and 23 years, who suffered from fever, jaundice, severe muscle pain and decreased renal function, Weil's syndrome was diagnosed, accompanied by severe rhabdomyolysis. Haemodialysis was needed temporarily in one patient. Leptospirosis is a zoonosis caused by spirochaetes. It is a rare disorder in the Netherlands. In 5-10% of the patients so-called icteric leptospirosis is seen: Weil's syndrome. The diagnosis of Weil's syndrome is supported by the presence of high fever, intense muscle aching and jaundice. Renal involvement is frequent and haemodialysis is sometimes required. The pathogenesis of the tubular necrosis is unclear. Adequate therapy can prevent irreversible renal damage.