Leptospirosis Research in India over 25 Years: A Scoping Review of Clinical Presentation, Diagnostic Capacity, and Temporal Trends

This study aims to map and synthesize research on leptospirosis conducted in India over the past two decades, with a focus on clinical presentation, diagnostic capacity, and research trends. Leptospirosis remains an under-recognized public health concern in India, marked by diverse clinical manifestations, variable diagnostic practices, and fragmented evidence across regions and study designs. A comprehensive synthesis of this literature is currently lacking. Using a scoping review methodology, the study will identify and chart peer-reviewed publications on human leptospirosis in India published between 2000 and 2024. The review will examine reported clinical features, disease severity, diagnostic tools, laboratory capacity, study designs, and geographic distribution, as well as temporal trends in research focus and methods. The expected outcome is an evidence map that identifies key patterns, gaps, and inconsistencies in the Indian leptospirosis literature. The findings will inform clinical practice, guide future research priorities, and support efforts to strengthen diagnostic capacity and research coordination for leptospirosis in India.