[Growth retardation in children with positive intradermic reaction for leishmaniasis: preliminary results]

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Tropical Medicine
• Pediatrics

Background:

• Leishmaniasis is a significant public health concern in endemic areas.
• Nutritional status is crucial for child development and immune function.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare growth retardation and food intake in children with and without positive Montenegro (leishmanin) tests in Brazil.
• To investigate the impact of Leishmania infection on children's nutritional status.

Main Methods:

• A comparative study was conducted in Porteirinha town, Brazil.
• 24-hour food intake recalls assessed daily nutrient consumption.
• Anthropometric data were compared against World Health Organization (WHO) standards.
• Children were categorized into Montenegro-positive (n=9) and Montenegro-negative (n=17) groups.

Main Results:

• No significant differences in age, daily energy intake, or protein consumption were observed between groups.
• Montenegro-positive children exhibited a substantially higher prevalence of stunting (44.4%) compared to Montenegro-negative children (5.9%).

Conclusions:

• Previous Leishmania sp. infection appears to have a detrimental effect on the nutritional status of children.
• Stunting in Montenegro-positive children indicates potential long-term growth consequences of leishmaniasis.
• Further research is warranted to elucidate the mechanisms linking Leishmania infection and growth retardation.