Leptospirosis and Dengue Coinfection-Associated Multi-Organ Dysfunction Syndrome: A Case Report

Cureus. 2024 Jan 17;16(1):e52466. doi: 10.7759/cureus.52466. eCollection 2024 Jan.

Abstract

Dengue and leptospirosis are frequently discussed separately, with dengue causing rash and leptospirosis causing jaundice. Currently, there are more and more reports of coinfections. The comparable clinical symptoms of both infections make it challenging to distinguish between leptospirosis and dengue. Differentiating between leptospirosis and dengue is crucial since leptospirosis has a more favorable prognosis with early antibiotic therapy, whereas dengue does not have a specific treatment, although early detection is essential for close monitoring and cautious fluid management. Here, we highlight a case of dengue virus and leptospirosis coinfection in a female who presented with acute febrile illness, dyspnea, and altered sensorium, which progressed to multiorgan dysfunction syndrome, involving the neurological, respiratory, hepatic, and hematological systems.

Keywords: coinfection; dengue encephalitis (de); dengue fever (df); dengue hemorrhagic fever (dhf); leptospirosis; thrombocytopenia.

Publication types

  • Case Reports