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Investigating the Phagocytosis of Leishmania using Confocal Microscopy
Published on: July 29, 2021
Oral mucosal involvement in visceral leishmaniasis
Sunny Garg1, Richik Tripathi, Kamlakar Tripathi
1Department of General Medicine, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, India. sunnygarg1987@gmail.com
Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Medicine
|February 5, 2013
Summary
Oral mucosal leishmaniasis, a rare manifestation of visceral leishmaniasis, was diagnosed in a young boy with persistent oral ulcers. Prompt treatment with Amphotericin B led to significant recovery.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Parasitology
- Oral Medicine
Background:
- Leishmaniasis commonly affects visceral and cutaneous tissues.
- Oral mucosal involvement in leishmaniasis is infrequent and often misdiagnosed.
- Visceral leishmaniasis can present with atypical oral manifestations.
Observation:
- A 17-year-old boy with a history of visceral leishmaniasis presented with persistent oral ulcers.
- Initial oral examination provided no diagnostic clues.
- Systemic examination revealed splenomegaly and low-grade fever.
Findings:
- An rK39-based immunochromatographic strip test was positive for leishmaniasis.
- Biopsy of oral ulcers and splenic/bone marrow aspirates confirmed leishmaniasis.
- Treatment with Amphotericin B for 20 days resulted in clinical and hematological improvement.
Implications:
- Highlights the importance of considering leishmaniasis in patients with persistent oral ulcers, especially those with a history of visceral leishmaniasis.
- Emphasizes the diagnostic value of rK39 testing and tissue biopsies in suspected cases.
- Demonstrates the efficacy of Amphotericin B in treating oral mucosal leishmaniasis.
