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Leptospirosis: The Hidden Bacterial Threat from Animals to Humans


Introduction leptospira

Obligate aerobic bacteria, Characteristic hooked ends (like a question mark, thus the species epithet –interrogans), are not stained with dyes but are seen by dark field microscopy, they are actively motile. Prefer to multiply in wet environment. Can survive for weeks in water, particularly at alkaline PH, Long thin finely coiled and motile with hooked at one or both ends. Genus is grouped by serologic and Pathogenicity. Two species: Leptospira interrogans (Pathogenic for many animals). Leptospira biflexa (Non - pathogenic and free living). They do not stain with aniline dyes, Susceptible to adverse conditions (dehydration, detergent and high temp. Readily cultivated in special media (Long chain FA, Vitamin B1 and B2 containing media).  Derive energy from oxidation of long-chain fatty acids and cannot use amino acids or CHOs as major energy source.

What is leptospirosis?

Leptospirosis is rare bacterial disease that affects both humans and animals. It passes from animals to humans, which happens when broken skin or an open wound comes into contact with animal urine or water contaminated with animal feces, caused by the bacteria genus leptospira, the condition can end up developing into meningitis or Weil’s disease, which are serious and can prove fetal. Leptospirosis does not move from person to person, leptospirosis is a widespread disease that can be contracted via direct contact with infected animal urine, or by ingesting water or food infected with the bacteria. Most cases result in symptoms similar to influenza, but some extreme cases can be fatal. The black berkey purification elements have been tested to reduce leptospira bacteria by 99.6% or higher at contamination levels much higher than found in nature.

Leptospirosis can be classified into two main types

1. Anicteric leptospirosis:

Anicteric leptospirosis represents the milder, more common form, accounting for about 90-95% of cases. This version typically presents as a flu-like illness without jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes ). Most people with this form recover completely, sometimes without ever knowing they had leptospirosis specifically.

2. Icteric leptospirosis:

Icteric leptospirosis, also known as Weil’s disease, is the severe form that occurs in 5-10% of infected individuals this version involves multiple organ systems, particularly the liver, kidneys, and brain, often accompanied by jaundice. It carries a significantly mortality rate of 5-15%, compared to less than 1%, for the milder form.


Sign and symptoms of leptospirosis

Leptospirosis typically progresses through two distinct phases:

The first phase, known as the septicemic phase, begins after the incubation period and lasts about 3-7 days. This initial phase starts suddenly with fever, often reaching 38.9-40C. Muscle pain represents another hallmark symptoms, classically affecting the calf and lower back muscles so severely.

Second phase:  Usually lasts 3 or more weeks, May present as an aseptic meningitis, Sudden onset of head ache, maylagia, chills, abdominal pain, and conjunctivitis.  It progress to vascular collapse, thrombocytopenia, hemorrhage, and hepatic and renal dysfunction.

Mode of transmission leptospira

Direct and indirect contact with organisms (urine contaminated fresh water, soil and mud). Handling infected animals, Moist and neutral PH suitable for the bacterial survival outside the host. The organism enter to the host break skin, intact mucous membrane (mouth, nose, conjunctivae), Ingestion is considered to be less important and human to human transmission extremely rare.

Haw to diagnoses leptospira

Microscopy: Light microscope is not useful (since they are very thin cannot be seen).  Dark filed, silver stain and direct immunofluorescence microscopy may be used. Culture: Blood, CSF, or urine can be cultured on Fletcher’s medium or others. It may take >6weeks for growth. Animal inoculation: Intraperitoneal injection of guinea pigs will increase positivity.

Treatment of leptospira

  •  Penicillin
  •  Tetracycline
  •  Amoxicillin

Control & prevention of leptospira

 Avoidance to contact with contaminated water sources, rodent / mice control.

Conclusion

Leptospira is a spiral-shaped bacterium that causes leptospirosis, a zoonotic disease affecting both humans and animals. The infection is primarily transmitted through contact with water or soil contaminated by the urine of infected animals. Early diagnosis and appropriate antibiotic treatment are crucial to prevent severe complications such as kidney and liver damage. Preventive measures, including proper sanitation, rodent control, and avoiding contaminated water, play an essential role in reducing the spread of leptospirosis.


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