Exposure to Leptospira icterohaemorrhagiae in inner-city and suburban children: a serologic comparison

Abstract

This study explores the exposure of urban children to the spirochete Leptospira icterohaemorrhagiae. This organism is carried by 90 percent of the rats in Detroit. It is felt that these rats are a potential vehicle for childhood exposure to this organism. Strain-specific tests were performed comparing antibody levels in sera of inner-city (exposed) and suburban (unexposed) children. Study and control groups, numbering 124 and 113, respectively, showed significant serologic differences, with urban children having higher antibody titers. The findings are indicative of differential exposure rates and suggest that actual cases of leptospirosis may be present, yet undiagnosed.