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Leptospirosis

Definition:
Leptospirosis is a rare, severe, and contagious bacterial infection caused by several species of the genus Leptospira, a spiral-shaped microorganism (spirochete).

Alternative Names:
Weil disease; Icterohemorrhagic fever; Swineherd's disease; Rice-field fever; Cane-cutter fever; Swamp fever; Mud fever; Hemorrhagic jaundice; Stuttgart disease; Canicola fever

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Leptospirosis is caused by exposure to the bacteria, which can be found in fresh water contaminated by animal urine. It occurs in warmer climates.

Risk factors include:

  • Occupational exposure -- farmers, ranchers, abattoir workers, trappers, veterinarians, loggers, sewer workers, rice field workers, and military personnel.
  • Recreational activities -- fresh water swimming, canoeing, kayaking, and trail biking in warm areas.
  • Household exposure -- pet dogs, domesticated live stock, rainwater catchment systems, and infestation by infected rodents.

The incidence of leptospirosis is low in the continental U.S. Hawaii has the highest number of cases in the U.S.



Review Date: 8/14/2002
Reviewed By: Donna R. Cooper, MD, MPH. Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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