Leptospirosis in Children: A Systematic Review of Clinical and Laboratory Manifestations
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https://doi.org/10.56450/Keywords:
Leptospirosis, Child, Signs and Symptoms, Clinical Laboratory TechniquesAbstract
Background: Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection causing health risks in tropical and subtropical regions. It presents in children with varying clinical symptoms, from flu-like to severe multi-organ involvement. Early diagnosis is crucial for effective management, but is challenging due to non-specific symptoms and laboratory findings. Methods: An effective literature search was conducted across various electronic databases (e.g., PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect) for studies published up to 2024. Studies were selected based on predefined inclusion criteria focusing on pediatric cases of leptospirosis and their clinical and laboratory features. Results: A total of 9 studies met the inclusion criteria. Across studies, males were predominantly affected, particularly from rural or peri-urban areas with significant environmental exposure, such as contact with contaminated water or infected animals. The most common clinical features included fever, fatigue, myalgia, and gastrointestinal symptoms (nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain), with conjunctival suffusion being a hallmark in specific cases. Laboratory abnormalities often included elevated C-reactive protein (CRP), leukocytosis, thrombocytopenia, and markers of kidney injury such as increased BUN and creatinine. Conclusion: Leptospirosis remains an important pediatric health issue. The disease presents with nonspecific symptoms, making early diagnosis challenging. Renal involvement is common complication Severe cases with neurological or hematological manifestations require urgent attention.
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