Kidney involvement in leishmaniasis--a review.

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Nephrology
• Parasitology

Background:

• Leishmaniasis is a significant parasitic disease caused by Leishmania protozoa.
• Transmission occurs via sandfly vectors (Lutzomyia/Phlebotomus).
• Key clinical forms include cutaneous, mucocutaneous, and visceral leishmaniasis (kala-azar).

Purpose of the Study:

• To review kidney involvement in cutaneous and visceral leishmaniasis.
• To highlight the pathophysiology of renal manifestations.
• To summarize clinical, histopathological, and treatment aspects of kidney disease in leishmaniasis.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on kidney involvement in leishmaniasis.
• Synthesis of information on pathophysiology, clinical presentation, and histopathology.
• Analysis of treatment strategies and patient outcomes.

Main Results:

• Kidney involvement is a recognized complication in both cutaneous and visceral leishmaniasis.
• Pathophysiological mechanisms leading to renal damage are complex and multifactorial.
• Clinical and histopathological findings vary depending on the leishmaniasis form and disease stage.

Conclusions:

• Understanding renal pathophysiology is crucial for managing leishmaniasis patients.
• Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can improve outcomes for kidney complications.
• Further research is needed to fully elucidate renal manifestations and optimize therapeutic approaches.