Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Renal dysfunction associated with infection of Leptospira interrogans in a horse.
- Journal:
- Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association
- Year:
- 1992
- Authors:
- Divers, T J et al.
- Affiliation:
- Department of Clinical Sciences · United States
- Species:
- horse
Plain-English summary
A horse was diagnosed with kidney failure due to an infection from a bacteria called Leptospira interrogans. The horse showed signs of fever, an increased white blood cell count, and pus in the urine, which indicated a urinary tract issue. Even though there was pus, routine tests didn’t find any bacteria in the urine, but a special test did confirm the presence of Leptospira. Blood tests over six months showed that the horse had an acute infection with a specific type of this bacteria. After receiving fluids and antibiotics through an IV, the horse made a full recovery.
Abstract
Renal failure associated with infection of Leptospira interrogans was detected in a horse. Fever, leukocytosis, pyuria, isosthenuria, and azotemia were suggestive of an inflammatory urinary tract disease. Despite persistent pyuria, no bacteria were found during routine microscopic examinations or bacteriologic culturing of urine. A fluorescent antibody examination of the urine was positive for L interrogans. Serologic testing during a 6-month period, supported an acute infection with L interrogans serovar pomona. Treatment with intravenously administered fluids and antimicrobials resulted in clinical recovery. Leptospira interrogans serovar pomona has been reported as causing fever, uveitis, or abortion in horses.
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Search related cases →Original publication: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1429185/