Leishmaniasis (Leishmania Infection)
Description
A disease 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 the entire body. The visceral form can be deadly. The parasite is found in every continent except Australia. In the Americas, leishmaniasis can be found in Mexico and South America. Also known as Mucocutaneous Leishmaniasis.
Symptoms
The visceral form causes: vomiting, diarrhea, fever, cough, fatigue, weakness, vague abdominal pain, and loss of appetite. The cutaneous form causes: skin sores, skin ulcers, mouth ulcers, breathing problems, painful swallowing.
Tests
A history and physical exam will be performed. Blood tests, biopsy and cultures will be done to identify the parasite. Other tests will be performed to identify the damage done by the infection.
- CBC
- Chem 12
- Lipase
- UA
- X-Ray
- CT Scan
Treatment
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. Removal of the spleen (splenectomy) may be required in drug-resistant cases of visceral leishmaniasis.
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