Leishmaniasis (leishmania infection, kala azar)
About Leishmaniasis (leishmania infection, kala azar)
A disease caused by the parasite, Leishmania. Infection is transmitted to humans through the bite of a sand fly . There are two forms: a cutaneous form involving the skin and mucous membranes, and a visceral form involving the entire body. The visceral form can be deadly. The parasite is found in every continent except Australia and Antarctica. In the Americas, leishmaniasis can be found in Mexico and South America.Symptoms
The cutaneous form causes: skin sores and ulcers that heal poorly, mouth ulcers, nasal congestion, breathing problems, painful swallowing. The visceral form causes: vomiting, diarrhea, fever, cough, fatigue, weakness, abdominal pain, and loss of appetite.Tests & Diagnostics
A history and physical exam will be performed. Blood tests, biopsies and culture of skin or other involved tissues may be done to identify the parasite. Other tests will be performed to identify the extent of involvement of the infection and to rule out other possible causes of symptoms. A special skin test, called the Montenegro skin test, can be helpful to identify an immune response to the parasite, an indication of prior exposure.Common tests: Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), CT Scan, Lipase, Urinalysis (UA), X-ray.
Conventional treatment summary
The most common medications administered to treat leishmaniasis are meglumine antimoniate and sodium stibogluconate. Other options include amphotericin B, Ketoconazole, miltefosine, paromomycin and pentamidine. Plastic surgery may be needed to repair the skin damage. Removal of the spleen (splenectomy) may be required in drug-resistant cases of visceral leishmaniasis. Prevention is important to avoid re-infection. Helpful measures for people in areas where sand flies and leishmaniasis are common include the use of protective netting around the bed, screening windows, and wearing protective clothing and insect repellent.Medical specialties
Infectious Disease Medicine · Pediatric Infectious Disease Medicine
This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Leishmaniasis (leishmania infection, kala azar).