[Icterohemorrhagic leptospirosis with acute respiratory distress syndrome and pulmonary hemorrhage]

We report a case of the respiratory distress syndrome occurring in a patient with leptospirosis ictero-haemorrhagica (LIH). The respiratory failure was associated with pulmonary haemorrhage. There was a rapid favourable outcome after treatment with antibiotics and artificial ventilation. The diagnosis of LIH has been confirmed by serological examination. The mechanisms of the pulmonary disorder during the course of LIH were discussed.