Leishmaniasis

Definition

Leishmaniasis is a parasitic disease caused by protozoan parasites from the Leishmania genus. It is transmitted through the bites of infected female phlebotomine sandflies.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Leishmaniasis manifests primarily in two forms: cutaneous and visceral leishmaniasis, with visceral being more severe and potentially fatal.
2. The disease is often associated with poverty, malnutrition, deforestation, and urbanization.
3. Innate nonspecific host defenses play a critical role in the initial recognition and response to Leishmania parasites.
4. Common symptoms of visceral leishmaniasis include fever, weight loss, enlargement of the spleen and liver, and anemia.
5. Treatment typically involves antimonial drugs, amphotericin B, or miltefosine; however, drug resistance is an emerging issue.

Review Questions

• What are the two primary clinical forms of leishmaniasis?
• How do innate nonspecific host defenses respond to Leishmania parasites?
• What are some common treatments for leishmaniasis and what challenge does drug resistance pose?

Related terms

Phagocytosis:

The process by which certain living cells called phagocytes ingest or engulf other cells or particles.

Protozoa:

A diverse group of unicellular eukaryotic organisms that can be free-living or parasitic.

Amphotericin B:

An antifungal medication also used to treat certain parasitic infections including leishmaniasis.