[Leptospirosis].

Recent epidemiological data show that leptospirosis is widespread in the animal kingdom, and not only among Muridae, and, that the number of human cases is greater than in the past while being still underestimated. To the classical occupational contaminations must now be added those due to water sports. Since leptospirosis has extremely diverse clinical features, physicians should have this diagnosis in mind in many circumstances and should request the appropriate examinations at the right moment. Carefully performed microbiological techniques may reduce the problems encountered in isolating leptospires. Serological tests requested after the 12th day of the disease and repeated several times should improve the diagnostic confirmation. The potential severity of certain forms justifies not only a curative antibiotic therapy, but also prophylactic measures including wider immunization campaigns, notably among people professionally exposed to the infestation.