Leptospirosis: a neglected cause of nonbacterial meningoencephalitis

Two cases of leptospirosis with different clinical presentations are presented. The importance of recognizing mild, nonicteric and meningoencephalitic forms in order to identify vectors and contaminated areas and prevent further infections is emphasized. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) findings in reported cases of leptospirosis are reviewed and possible prognostic implications of CSF xanthrochromia, hypoglycorrhachia, persistent polymorphonuclear leukocytosis, and increased intracranial pressure are discussed.