Main description:

This volume covers all aspects of infection by pathogenic Leptospira species, the causative agents of the world's most widespread zoonosis. Topics include aspects of human and animal leptospirosis as well as detailed analyses of our current knowledge of leptospiral structure and physiology, epidemiology, pathogenesis, genomics, immunity and vaccines. Updates are presented on leptospiral systematics, identification and diagnostics, as well as practical information on culture of Leptospira. Contact information is also provided for Leptospira reference centers.

All chapters were written by experts in the field, providing an invaluable reference source for scientists, veterinarians, clinicians and all others with an interest in leptospirosis.

Contents:

History of Leptospirosis and Leptospira

Ben Adler

Systematics of Leptospiraceae

Paul N. Levett

Leptospiral Structure, Physiology and Metabolism

Caroline E. Cameron

Genomics, Proteomics and Genetics of Leptospira

Mathieu Picardeau

Leptospirosis in Humans

David A. Haake and Paul N. Levett

Animal Leptospirosis

William A. Ellis

The Molecular Basis of Leptospiral Pathogenesis

Gerald L. Murray

The Leptospiral Outer Membrane

David A. Haake and Wolfram R. Zuckert

Host response to Leptospira Infection

Richard L. Zuerner

Vaccines Against Leptospirosis

Ben Adler

The Role of Leptospirosis Reference Laboratories

Rudy A Hartskeerl and Lee D Smythe