Current methods for the diagnosis of leptospirosis: Issues and challenges

Abstract

Leptospirosis is a re-emerging anthropo-zoonotic infection of worldwide significance caused by the pathogenic spirochete (Leptospira interrogans) of the genus Leptospira, predominant in tropical/temperate regions and endemic to areas receiving heavy rainfall and flooding. Clinical presentation is similar to that of other febrile illnesses exhibiting mild symptoms which are often self-limiting. Hence, Leptospirosis is often mis-diagnosed and remains untreated progressing to Weil's Disease which is fatal. As only 30% of cases are diagnosed in endemic countries, Leptospirosis remains as a neglected zoonotic disease of tropical regions, due to poor diagnostic facilities and mild, asymptomatic disease manifestations which are often neglected. As this zoonosis is reported to cause periodical outbreaks, it is a major public health concern. Although diagnostic facilities are available, they are not accessible in technology-limited settings and are limited to certain hospitals and reference laboratories. This review is about the various methods used for the detection of Leptospirosis and their significance. It highlights the need for an appropriate diagnostic test for the rapid detection of leptospirosis in order to initiate immediate antibiotic therapy.

Keywords: Diagnosis; Leptospirosis; Microscopic Agglutination Test; Molecular assays; Zoonotic diseases.