[Immunologic complications of visceral leishmaniasis]

This study concerns 3 cases of visceral leishmaniasis with various immunological complications. One patients showed a life-threatening activation of macrophages, characterised by haemophagocytosis in the bone marrow, pancytopenia, hypofibrinogenaemia and hypertriglycerideamia. A selective deficiency of IgG subclasses persisting for months was found in all 3 cases, the clinical relevance of which is unclear. One case manifested the already well known transient decrease of cell mediated immunity to antigens. If early detection and correct management is possible, these complications may be prevented and most cases of visceral leishmaniasis be cured.