Mucocutaneous leishmaniasis
About Mucocutaneous leishmaniasis
Caused by the parasite, Leishmania. It is transmitted to humans from the bite of a sand fly. There are two forms: a cutaneous form involving the skin and mucous membranes, and a visceral form involving organs within the body. The parasite is found in every continent except Australia. In the Americas, leishmaniasis can be found in Mexico and South America.Symptoms
The cutaneous form causes: skin sores, skin ulcers, mouth ulcers, painful swallowing.Tests & Diagnostics
A history and physical exam will be performed. Blood tests, biopsy and cultures will be done to identify the parasite. Other test will be performed to identify the damage caused by the infection.Common tests: Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), CT Scan, Lipase, Urinalysis (UA), X-ray.
Conventional treatment summary
Medications to kill the parasite including: meglumine antimonite, sodium stibogluconate, amphotericin B and/or pentamidine. Plastic surgery may be needed to repair the skin damage.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 Mucocutaneous leishmaniasis.