Chapter 5

Leptospirosis: An Infection Which Leads to Kidney & Liver Damage

Muhammad Imran Qadir and Ghalia Batool Alvi

Abstract

Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease caused by Leptospira interrogans which affects humans as well as animals. It can be transmitted from animals to humans in different ways. Global mortality and morbidity data indicate that of almost 1 million cases nearly 60,000 die each year. The agent responsible for this disease is common in tropical regions and the most suitable time for its growth is summer. People working with animals are more likely to contract this disease. It involves some flu-like symptoms: fever, diarrhea, cough, and severe pain. It can also damage the liver and kidneys and can also be fatal. Several methods have been devised for its diagnosis and mostly used methods are gene-based and serological. The main treatment of this disease is the use of antibiotics or a mix of antibiotics depending upon the status of the disease. Prevention from this disease is important as it can even cause death.

Total Pages: 19-27 (9)

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