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Publication Date
4-29-2020
Disciplines
Bacterial Infections and Mycoses | Internal Medicine
Abstract
Introduction: Leptospirosis is caused by Leptospira species, a spirochete bacterium that affects animals and humans. The disease can range from mild flu-like illness to multi-organ failure. While likely underreported, the incidence according to the World Health Organization can range from 0.1 to 10 per 100,000 depending on climate Leptospirosis is commonly associated with occupational or recreational exposures
Case Report: A 43 year-old previously healthy man presented with two weeks of myalgias, fevers, neck pain and throbbing headache. The patient competed in an Iron Man event in upstate New York one month prior to presentation. Initial investigation demonstrated a mild anemia, elevated aminotransferases and negative head CT. Lumbar puncture revealed a cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) pleocytosis, normal glucose, mildly elevated protein, and negative gram stain, consistent with aseptic meningitis. The patient was started on acyclovir. Given his recreational risk factor for Leptospirosis in the setting of characteristic clinical features, we added doxycycline on admission Acyclovir was discontinued after negative HSV PCR. Within 24 hours, he improved significantly and was discharged with a course of doxycycline. Subsequently, all elements of the infectious evaluation returned negative except a positive Leptospirosis Ab. The patient’s symptoms and transaminitis fully resolved.
Discussion: Leptospirosis is among the most common zoonotic infections worldwide, however in the United States only about 100-150 cases are reported annually, mostly in Hawaii and Puerto Rico. The organism infects humans through contact with urine of infected rodents, dogs, and livestock or urine-contaminated environments. Patient’s commonly present with: • Fevers, myalgias, and headaches after an incubation time of 2 to 26 days • Other findings can include cough, arthralgias, nausea and vomiting, abdominal pain, and rash • About 40% of people have elevated aminotransferases, and 50-85% have aseptic meningitis • Severe cases can progress to jaundice, renal failure, pulmonary hemorrhage, myocarditis, rhabdomyolysis, and ARDS Leptospirosis is associated with a variety of risk factors, including occupational exposures and recreational activities. Large outbreaks are usually associated with recent rainfall or flooding. The bacteria can invade through skin abrasions and conjunctiva, or by swallowing contaminated water. The relationship between the risk of outdoor water sports and Leptospirosis infection is well described in the literature, with outbreaks around the world, including in Illinois (1998) and Florida (2005). Coincidentally, there had been significant recent rainfall with run-off into Lake Placid, the location of this patients Iron Man competition. Our patient’s CSF analysis was consistent with aseptic meningitis, but the time course was longer than expected for viral meningitis. Although rare in the United States, clinicians should consider leptospirosis in patients with aseptic meningitis, elevated aminotransferases, and potential exposure history.
Specialty/Research Institute
Internal Medicine
Specialty/Research Institute
Graduate Medical Education
Conference / Event Name
Academic Achievement Day, 2020
Location
Providence St. Vincent, Internal Medicine Residency, Portland, Oregon
