Leptospirosis
Alternative Names
Weil disease; Icterohemorrhagic fever; Swineherd's disease; Rice-field fever; Cane-cutter fever; Swamp fever; Mud fever; Hemorrhagic jaundice; Stuttgart disease; Canicola feverTreatment
Penicillins, tetracyclines, chloramphenicol, and erythromycin can be given to treat leptospirosis. Supportive care needs to be given in complicated cases.
Outlook (Prognosis)
The outlook is generally good, although death is possible if a complicated case is not treated promptly.
Possible Complications
- Jarisch-Herxheimer reaction when penicillin is given
- Meningitis
- Severe bleeding
When to Contact a Medical Professional
If you have any of the signs, symptoms, or risk factors for leptospirosis, contact your health care provider.
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