Introduction: Malaysia is endemic for leptospirosis with
increasing incidence recorded over the years. Perak has
recorded one of the highest incidence and mortality of
leptospirosis since 2004.
Methods: This is a retrospective study of confirmed
leptospirosis cases in Larut, Matang and Selama (LMS)
district in Perak reported in 2016. The demographic, clinical
presentation, laboratory result and clinical outcomes data
were analysed and presented.
Results: Forty-two patients with confirmed diagnosis of
leptospirosis were included into the study. Majority of
patients were males and Malays. The case fatality rate was
14.3%. Patients with leptospirosis present with variable
clinical presentations and are commonly seen with coinfection. Patients 70-year-old and older, have clinical
presentations suggestive of organ dysfunction and require
intensive care are associated with higher mortality.
Conclusion: Leptospirosis is endemic in LMS district of
Perak with high incidence and case fatality rate. The clinical
presentation of leptospirosis is variable. Co-infection of
leptospirosis with other acute febrile illness is common.
Patients presenting with symptoms and signs of organ
dysfunctions or require intensive care are associated with
an increased odds of death.