Old-world leishmaniasis presenting as a nasal mass

Area of Science:

• Medical Parasitology
• Infectious Diseases
• Otorhinolaryngology

Background:

• Mucosal leishmaniasis is prevalent in Latin America, but infrequently reported in other regions.
• Leishmania tropica is a significant concern in Northeast Iran, though mucosal involvement is rare.
• Previous reports from Southwest Iran primarily focused on oral cavity leishmaniasis.

Observation:

• A case of endonasal leishmaniasis due to Leishmania tropica in an immunocompetent individual from Northeast Iran is presented.
• The patient exhibited symptoms including a nasal vestibule mass, obstruction, rhinorrhea, and epistaxis.
• This presentation is exceptionally rare for immunocompetent patients in the region.

Findings:

• Confirms Leishmania tropica as a causative agent of endonasal leishmaniasis in an immunocompetent host.
• Demonstrates a rare clinical manifestation of leishmaniasis affecting the nasal cavity.
• Underscores the geographic and clinical rarity of this specific presentation.

Implications:

• Suggests expanding the differential diagnosis for nasal obstruction to include leishmaniasis in endemic areas.
• Highlights the need for increased awareness among clinicians regarding atypical presentations of leishmaniasis.
• Emphasizes the importance of considering leishmaniasis in patients presenting with nasal symptoms, even in immunocompetent individuals.