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Leptospirosis, a bacterial infection caused by Leptospira, kills tens of thousands of people and affects nearly a million individuals globally each year, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). It is commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions, including Malaysia, due to its primary mode of transmission through water contaminated with the urine of infected animals, particularly rodents. The frequent occurrence of floods in Malaysia significantly contributes to the prevalence of outbreaks in the country.
Leptospirosis is more likely to affect individuals who work outdoors, particularly in agriculture, or those who frequently handle water. The risk is heightened by exposure to fresh water, rodents, or regions where leptospirosis is common. For pregnant women, it can significantly increase the risk of miscarriage. Therefore, leptospirosis must be treated quickly to avoid severe health issues.
Leptospirosis Symptoms
Leptospirosis symptoms frequently start out mildly as flu-like symptoms such as:
- Fever
- Headaches
- Muscle aches
Additionally symptoms may include:
- Conjunctival hyperemia
- Nausea
- Vomiting
More severe symptoms may manifest as the disease worsens, such as:
- Respiratory distress
- Kidney dysfunction
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin)
If treatment is not received, serious side effects like liver or kidney failure could develop.
Leptospirosis Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis
In order to effectively treat leptospirosis and prevent major complications, early diagnosis is crucial. It is also important to get a proper medical test because leptospirosis symptoms can mimic those of the flu, dengue, or malaria.
Prior to doing a comprehensive physical examination, your doctor will enquire about your symptoms and general health. The physical examination, your reported symptoms, and the results of the investigations are used to make the diagnosis.
Laboratory tests
PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) |
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Serology tests (Antibody Tests: IgM and IgG) |
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MAT (Microscopic Agglutination Test) |
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Commercial tests (ELISA, IgM-specific Tests) |
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Culture test |
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Differential diagnosis
Malaria, dengue, hantavirus, and non-infectious diseases like vasculitis and thrombotic syndromes are among the other illnesses that present with similar symptoms.
Treatment options
Leptospirosis is treatable, especially if detected early. Antibiotic therapy serves as the main strategy, with symptomatic treatment added if needed.
Antibiotic | Antibiotics like penicillin or doxycycline are frequently used to treat leptospirosis. Giving these antibiotics during the early stages of infection maximises their effectiveness. It might be necessary to administer intravenous antibiotics if the illness is discovered at a later stage. |
Supportive care | Supportive care is essential in more severe situations. Ventricular support, blood transfusions, and renal replacement therapy may be necessary for patients. |
Preventive Measures to Avoid Leptospirosis
Reducing exposure to the conditions where the bacteria thrive is the first step in preventing leptospirosis. Avoid potentially contaminated water when swimming or wading, particularly after floods. To reduce skin contact with potentially infected water or soil, wear protective gear, such as gloves and waterproof boots, if you work outdoors or in agriculture.
Furthermore, the risk can be decreased by following proper hygiene practices, such as washing hands thoroughly after handling contaminated surfaces or animals. To further prevent leptospirosis, it requires keeping surroundings clean and managing rodent populations.
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions about Leptospirosis
1. Is it possible to spread leptospirosis?
It is impossible to spread leptospirosis from one person to another. It is most frequently acquired by coming into contact with soil or water that has been tainted by infected animal urine.
2. If I think I may have leptospirosis, what should I do?
If you suspect leptospirosis exposure or develop flu-like symptoms after being in a high-risk environment, get medical help right away. Early antibiotic treatment is a must.
3. Can leptospirosis go away on its own?
No, leptospirosis needs to be treated by a doctor. In the absence of antibiotics, the infection may worsen and cause serious health issues.
4. Does leptospirosis have long-term effects?
If treatment for leptospirosis is postponed, severe cases may result in long-term organ damage, especially to the liver or kidneys.
Schedule an Appointment at Gleneagles Hospitals
When detected early, leptospirosis is a serious infection that can be treated. However, it can cause life-threatening complications if left untreated. Staying alert and getting medical help as soon as symptoms appear is essential if you have been exposed to contaminated water or live or work in an area where leptospirosis is prevalent. Early diagnosis and treatment can ensure a fast recovery and avoid severe complications.
Feel free to contact us to schedule an appointment if you have any questions or concerns about pneumonia. If a health screen is needed, please get in touch with your closest Gleneagles Hospital's health screening centre to book an appointment.
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