L. donovani

Definition

Leishmania donovani is a protozoan parasite that causes visceral leishmaniasis, also known as kala-azar. This disease primarily affects the internal organs, particularly the spleen, liver, and bone marrow, leading to severe health complications if left untreated. The parasite is transmitted through the bite of infected female phlebotomine sandflies and is prevalent in various regions, particularly in tropical and subtropical areas.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. L. donovani is responsible for an estimated 200,000 to 400,000 new cases of visceral leishmaniasis each year worldwide.
2. The incubation period for L. donovani infection can range from a few weeks to several months, during which symptoms may not be apparent.
3. Symptoms of visceral leishmaniasis include prolonged fever, weight loss, enlargement of the spleen and liver, and anemia.
4. Diagnosis often involves serological tests or the detection of the parasite in tissue samples obtained from the spleen or bone marrow.
5. Treatment typically includes medications such as liposomal amphotericin B or miltefosine, which are effective against L. donovani infections.

Review Questions

• What are the main clinical manifestations of visceral leishmaniasis caused by L. donovani?
  • Visceral leishmaniasis, caused by L. donovani, primarily presents with prolonged fever, significant weight loss, and an enlargement of the spleen and liver. These symptoms can lead to anemia due to bone marrow involvement. If left untreated, this severe form of leishmaniasis can progress to more serious complications and potentially become fatal.
• Discuss the role of phlebotomine sandflies in the transmission cycle of L. donovani and how this impacts public health strategies.
  • Phlebotomine sandflies are critical vectors in the transmission cycle of L. donovani, as they carry the parasite from infected hosts to new human victims. Public health strategies focus on controlling sandfly populations through insecticide use and educating communities about prevention methods like using bed nets and improving housing conditions. Understanding this vector's biology helps in designing effective control measures against visceral leishmaniasis outbreaks.
• Evaluate the global impact of L. donovani on health systems, considering both direct and indirect effects on affected populations.
  • The global impact of L. donovani extends beyond immediate health concerns; it poses challenges to health systems due to the high costs of treatment and management of visceral leishmaniasis. Indirectly, affected populations often experience economic burdens due to lost productivity and healthcare expenses, exacerbating poverty levels in endemic regions. Addressing these issues requires integrated approaches that include improving access to treatment, vector control strategies, and community education to reduce transmission risks.

Related terms

Visceral Leishmaniasis: A severe form of leishmaniasis that affects internal organs and can be fatal if not treated promptly.

Phlebotomine Sandflies: Small flies that serve as the primary vectors for transmitting Leishmania parasites, including L. donovani.

Kala-Azar: Another name for visceral leishmaniasis, derived from Hindi meaning 'black fever,' which describes the disease's symptoms and progression.