The most severe forms of leptospira species disease are caused by L. interrogans icterohaemorrhagiae. Natural hosts for this infection include rats, dogs, and farm animals, with an incubation period of 7 to 14 days.
The primary way of contracting leptospira species is through contact with water contaminated with rat urine, which may occur in activities such as sewers workers. Leptospires can survive in this environment for months.
Icteric Disease (Weil's Disease): Further symptoms include jaundice, renal impairment, haemorrhage, systemic inflammatory response, or shock.
Conjunctival suffusion may also be present.
The following tests may be utilized to diagnose leptospira species:
Treatment is mainly supportive in nature.
Complications may include chronic eye infection.
Excellent prognosis is expected for patients with mild forms of the infection, though the outcome is often poor for those with severe cases.
