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Old World eyelid cutaneous leishmaniasis: a case report
Enrique Mencía-Gutiérrez1, Esperanza Gutiérrez-Díaz, José L Rodríguez-Peralto
1Department of Ophthalmology, 12 de Octubre Hospital, Complutense University, Madrid, Spain. emencia.hdoc@salud.madrid.org
Dermatology Online Journal
|January 18, 2006
Summary
Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) can present as a rare eyelid lesion, mimicking basal cell carcinoma. Early diagnosis via histology is crucial for effective management and to rule out malignancy.
Area of Science:
- Medical Parasitology
- Dermatology
- Ophthalmology
Background:
- Leishmania protozoa cause leishmaniasis, affecting skin, mucous membranes, and viscera.
- Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) distribution is linked to sandfly vectors, with specific Leishmania species prevalent in different regions.
- Leishmania infantum is a notable cause of CL in Southern Europe.
Observation:
- A 63-year-old woman presented with a 6-month history of a nodular eyelid lesion resembling basal cell carcinoma.
- The lesion, measuring 1.1 cm, was surgically excised.
- Histologic examination confirmed CL by identifying intracellular Leishmania organisms within histiocytes.
Findings:
- Histopathology confirmed the diagnosis of cutaneous leishmaniasis.
- The patient showed no evidence of cutaneous, mucous, or visceral involvement during a 2-year follow-up.
- The eyelid lesion's presentation was unusual, distinct from common carcinomas.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering cutaneous leishmaniasis in the differential diagnosis of eyelid lesions.
- Nodular, ulcerated eyelid lesions warrant thorough investigation beyond common malignancies.
- Prompt diagnosis and treatment prevent disseminated leishmaniasis and cosmetic disfigurement.