Aetiology
Leishmaniasis is a parasitic disease caused by protozoa belonging to the Leishmania genus. It is transmitted by the bite of sandflies, which carry the parasite from one infected animal or human to another.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of leishmaniasis is based on clinical history, physical examination, and laboratory testing. Blood tests, skin biopsies, and imaging tests can be used to identify the presence of the parasite.
Differential diagnosis
Differential diagnosis includes other parasitic diseases such as malaria, African sleeping sickness, and toxoplasmosis.
Treatment
Treatment for leishmaniasis depends on the severity of the disease and can include antimonial drugs, pentavalent antimonials, and amphotericin B.
Prognosis
If treated early and correctly, leishmaniasis is usually curable. However, if left untreated, it can cause serious complications such as organ damage or even death.