Leishmaniasis

Isadora dos Santos Lima, Luiz Antonio Rodrigues de Freitas, Francisco Javier Salguero

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapterpeer-review

Abstract

Leishmaniases constitute a group of diseases caused by protozoa of the genus Leishmania, which infect cells of the mononuclear phagocytic system and produce lesions on the skin and mucous membranes (cutaneous and mucocutaneous leishmaniasis) and internal organs (visceral leishmaniasis). Cutaneous and mucocutaneous leishmaniasis causes ulcerated or nodular lesions on the skin and nasal and oral mucous membranes. Visceral leishmaniasis compromises internal organs and is manifested by weight loss, hepatomegaly, splenomegaly, and bone marrow dysfunction, with anemia, neutropenia, and hemorrhages. The lesions of cutaneous leishmaniasis are destructive and progressive, causing aesthetic and functional damage, especially in the facial region: nose and mouth. When left untreated, visceral leishmaniasis is usually lethal; in treated individuals, lethality is around 6%. Leishmaniasis is present on all continents, except Oceania.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationNeglected Zoonoses and Antimicrobial Resistance
Subtitle of host publicationImpact on One Health and Sustainable Development Goals
PublisherElsevier
Pages87-124
Number of pages38
ISBN (Electronic)9780443160622
ISBN (Print)9780443160639
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Jan 2024

Bibliographical note

Publisher Copyright:
© 2025 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Keywords

  • Clinical manifestations
  • Cutaneous leishmaniasis
  • Diagnosis
  • Leishmania
  • Parasitology
  • Protozoa
  • Treatment
  • Vector borne disease
  • Visceral leishmaniasis

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