Microbiology
Summary
Leptospira interrogans, the cause of leptospirosis, is a spirochete bacterium with a distinct spiral or 'question mark' shape. Leptospira is endemic in tropical regions and is commonly found in animals like rodents and dogs, excreted in urine, and transmitted to humans when they swim in contaminated water.
Leptospirosis symptoms encompass fever, flu-like manifestations, and conjunctival suffusion, which is characterized by redness of the conjunctiva without inflammatory exudates. Weil's disease is the most severe form of leptospirosis, which involves the bacteria traveling through the bloodstream and affecting various organs. The two most important organs affected are the kidneys and liver, causing renal dysfunction and jaundice, respectively.
Lesson Outline
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FAQs
Leptospira interrogans, a bacterium with a distinctive question mark shape, belongs to the spirochete group and serves as the primary causative agent of leptospirosis Ð a zoonotic disease impacting both humans and animals. The bacteria are typically contracted through contact with water contaminated with the urine from infected animals.
Leptospirosis is especially prevalent in tropical areas, including Hawaii, due to the warm, wet climate which creates ideal conditions for the Leptospira interrogans bacteria to thrive. The disease is also more common in regions where water sports are popular and where there is a high likelihood of coming into contact with contaminated water or soil.
Common symptoms of leptospirosis include high fever, headache, chills, muscle aches, vomiting, and jaundice. If the disease progresses, it can lead to severe complications such as Weil's disease. Weil's disease, a severe form of leptospirosis, is characterized by renal dysfunction, liver damage, and can even result in death.
Leptospira interrogans bacteria are typically transmitted through contact with water or soil contaminated with the urine from infected animals. The bacteria can enter the body through the skin, especially through wounds, or via the mucous membranes of the mouth, nose, and eyes. Because rodents are often carriers of the bacteria, their urine is a common source of contamination in many environments.
