High-resolution computed tomography findings in a case of severe leptospira infection (Weil disease) complicated with Jarisch-Herxheimer reaction

J Thorac Imaging. 2012 Jan;27(1):W24-6. doi: 10.1097/RTI.0b013e318231535b.

Abstract

In this report, we describe a case of Weil disease. Chest x-ray and computed tomography (CT) findings showed temporary deterioration 1 day after the initiation of antibiotic treatment, and high-resolution CT findings with the patient's physical findings made us suspect pulmonary alveolar hemorrhage (PAH). We believed that the PAH had been induced by Weil disease and subsequently caused Jarisch-Herxheimer reaction. We confirmed the patient's contact history with mice, and symptoms improved immediately after starting appropriate treatments. Leptospirosis is a relatively rare cause of PAH. Therefore, the possibility of this disease should be included in the differential diagnosis, especially when high-resolution CT findings indicate PAH, and the imaging findings deteriorate rapidly after antibiotic therapy.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Animals
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / adverse effects
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / therapeutic use
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Hemoptysis / diagnostic imaging
  • Hemoptysis / etiology
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Mice
  • Occupational Diseases / complications
  • Occupational Diseases / diagnostic imaging*
  • Occupational Diseases / drug therapy
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed*
  • Weil Disease / complications
  • Weil Disease / diagnostic imaging*
  • Weil Disease / drug therapy

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents