[Immunomodulation in severe leptospirosis with multiple organ failure: plasma exchange, intravenous immunoglobulin or corticosteroids?]

Ann Fr Anesth Reanim. 2008 Feb;27(2):172-6. doi: 10.1016/j.annfar.2007.10.034. Epub 2007 Dec 21.
[Article in French]

Abstract

We report a case of severe leptospirosis complicated with a multiple organ failure syndrome. A 62-year-old patient presented a picture associating fever, asthenia and myalgias, particularly intense on the calves. The assessment showed acute renal failure, hyperbilirubinemia, severe rhabdomyolysis and thrombocytopenia. Although initial management associating amoxicilline and continuous veino-venous hemodiafiltration, evolution was unfavourable, with SDRA and increase of hyperbilirubinemia. Administration of a bolus of 500 mg of methylprednisolone, associated with intravenous immunoglobulin (0,4 g/kg per day during five days), led to a rapid clinical and biological improvement. Immunomodulation aspects during leptospirosis are discussed.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Adrenal Cortex Hormones / therapeutic use
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Humans
  • Immunoglobulins, Intravenous / therapeutic use
  • Immunologic Factors / therapeutic use
  • Leptospirosis / complications
  • Leptospirosis / drug therapy*
  • Male
  • Methylprednisolone / therapeutic use
  • Multiple Organ Failure / etiology*
  • Plasma Exchange
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Adrenal Cortex Hormones
  • Immunoglobulins, Intravenous
  • Immunologic Factors
  • Methylprednisolone