Leishmaniasis

Leishmaniasis, also known as Kala-azar, is a parasitic infection caused by Leishmania protozoan. It is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected female sandflies. The disease is found in many parts of the world, but is most common in tropical and subtropical regions such as India, Bangladesh, Sudan, and Brazil.

Symptoms of leishmaniasis can vary depending on the type of infection. The most common form, cutaneous leishmaniasis, causes skin sores that can take months to heal. These sores may be accompanied by fever, weight loss, and fatigue. The more severe form, visceral leishmaniasis, can cause fever, weight loss, anemia, and damage to the spleen, liver, and bone marrow.

Diagnosis of leishmaniasis is typically made through blood tests or by analyzing tissue samples from a skin sore. The most common test is called a rK39 rapid diagnostic test, which looks for antibodies in the blood. Other tests include PCR, culture and microscopy.

Treatment for leishmaniasis depends on the type of infection and the severity of the symptoms. Cutaneous leishmaniasis is often treated with topical medications or oral drugs. Visceral leishmaniasis, which can be life-threatening, is typically treated with a combination of drugs such as Amphotericin B, Miltefosine and Paromomycin.

Preventing leishmaniasis involves avoiding exposure to infected sandflies. This can be done by using insect repellent, wearing long-sleeved clothing, and sleeping under a bed net. It is also important to control the population of sandflies by eliminating their breeding sites, such as standing water.