Isolation of leptospires in diagnosis of leptospirosis.

Though the microscopic agglutination test is commonly used as an aid to diagnosis of leptospirosis, it lacks sensitivity, cannot differentiate vaccinal titers from those of infection, and cannot identify shedders. The ELISA is sensitive but also cannot differentiate titers of vaccination and infection. Leptospire isolation is essential for a final diagnosis. Tissue or fluid samples should be aseptically collected, if possible, and quickly shipped to the diagnostic laboratory in transport medium or on ice, but should not be frozen. Samples to be collected may include urine, milk, kidney, aqueous humor, and fallopian tube or uterine mucosa.