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Open Access 01-12-2021 | Leptospirosis | Case report

Severe leptospirosis complicated with multiorgan dysfunction successfully managed with plasma exchange: a case report

Authors: Manana Dewage Sankani Vishvara Kularathna, Senanayake Abeysinghe Mudiyanselage Kularatne, Manoji Pathirage, Pala Thanthirige Madhushi Anuradha Nanayakkara

Published in: Journal of Medical Case Reports | Issue 1/2021

Abstract

Background

Leptospirosis is a common zoonotic infection caused by the spirochete Leptospira. The disease is more prevalent in the tropics, causing subclinical to severe illness leading to high morbidity and mortality.

Case presentation

A 77-year-old healthy Sri Lankan man presented to the Teaching Hospital Peradeniya with severe leptospirosis complicated with acute kidney injury, pulmonary hemorrhages, myocarditis, and severe thrombocytopenia. He was deteriorating despite treatment with intravenous antibiotics and methylprednisolone boluses. He made a dramatic improvement with two cycles of plasma exchange.

Conclusion

Therapeutic plasma exchange is a life-saving treatment modality in severe leptospirosis with multiorgan failure.

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Title: Severe leptospirosis complicated with multiorgan dysfunction successfully managed with plasma exchange: a case report
Authors: Manana Dewage Sankani Vishvara Kularathna
Senanayake Abeysinghe Mudiyanselage Kularatne
Manoji Pathirage
Pala Thanthirige Madhushi Anuradha Nanayakkara
Publication date: 01-12-2021
Publisher: BioMed Central
Keywords: Leptospirosis
Leptospira
Myocarditis
Pulmonary Hemorrhage
Published in: Journal of Medical Case Reports / Issue 1/2021
Electronic ISSN: 1752-1947
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s13256-021-03135-3

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Severe leptospirosis complicated with multiorgan dysfunction successfully managed with plasma exchange: a case report

Abstract

Background

Case presentation

Conclusion

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Background

Case presentation

Conclusion

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