What are the main causes of Leishmaniasis?

protozoa Leishmania, which are spread by the bites of sandflies

What are the main clinical features of Cutaneous leishmaniasis?

• crusted lesion at the site of bite
• there may be an underlying ulcer

How is Cutaneous leishmaniasis diagnosed?

punch biopsy from the edge of the lesion allowing for both histology and culture

What is the management of Cutaneous leishmaniasis?

cutaneous leishmaniasis acquired in South or Central America merits treatment due to the risk of mucocutaneous leishmaniasis whereas disease acquired in Africa or India can be managed more conservatively

What are the main causes of Cutaneous leishmaniasis?

Leishmania tropica or Leishmania mexicana

What are the main clinical features of Mucocutaneous leishmaniasis?

skin lesions may spread to involve mucosae of nose, pharynx etc

What are the main causes of Mucocutaneous leishmaniasis?

Leishmania braziliensis

What patient groups is Visceral leishmaniasis most common?

Mediterranean, Asia, South America, Africa

What are the main clinical features of Visceral leishmaniasis?

• fever, sweats, rigors
• massive splenomegaly. hepatomegaly
• poor appetite*, weight loss (occasionally patients may report increased appetite with paradoxical weight loss)
• grey skin - 'kala-azar' means black sickness
• pancytopaenia secondary to hypersplenism

How is Visceral leishmaniasis diagnosed?

bone marrow or splenic aspirate

What are the main causes of Visceral leishmaniasis?

Leishmania donovani