Mucocutaneous Leishmaniasis
Description
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.
Symptoms
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 test will be performed to identify the damage caused 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.
Related Videos
Share Your Experience
Do you have experience with this disease? Do you or someone
you know suffer from Mucocutaneous leishmaniasis?
Please share you experience with other members of the iTriage community.