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Updated: Jul 13, 2026
11:36
Cutaneous Leishmaniasis in the Dorsal Skin of Hamsters: a Useful Model for the Screening of Antileishmanial Drugs
Published on: April 21, 2012
Case report: Leishmaniasis of the upper lip
Stefano Veraldi1, Silvia Bottini, Maria Chiara Persico
1Institute of Dermatological Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy. stefano.veraldi@unimi.it
Summary
A rare case of leishmaniasis presented as a lip swelling in an elderly Italian man. Successful treatment with N-methylglucamine antimonate led to full recovery.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Infectious Diseases
- Parasitology
Background:
- Leishmaniasis is a parasitic disease caused by Leishmania parasites, transmitted by sandflies.
- While typically affecting skin or mucous membranes, atypical presentations can occur.
Observation:
- A 77-year-old Italian man presented with a severe, asymptomatic swelling on his upper lip.
- The lesion exhibited erythema, crusting, scaling, and a parenchymatous-hard consistency.
Findings:
- Histopathology revealed an inflammatory infiltrate with Leishmania spp. amastigotes within macrophages.
- Culture confirmed Leishmania spp., and PCR identified Leishmania infantum.
Implications:
- This case highlights the possibility of lip localization in leishmaniasis, even in elderly patients.
- Prompt diagnosis and treatment with N-methylglucamine antimonate are effective for localized leishmaniasis.
- Further research into atypical leishmaniasis presentations is warranted.
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