Indian erythrodermic postkala-azar dermal leishmaniasis

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Infectious Diseases
• Parasitology

Background:

• Postkala-azar dermal leishmaniasis (PKDL) is a recognized complication of visceral leishmaniasis (kala-azar).
• PKDL arises from Leishmania donovani infection, manifesting primarily in the skin after treatment or spontaneous resolution of visceral leishmaniasis.
• While typically presenting as maculopapular or nodular lesions, rarer forms exist.

Observation:

• This case study focuses on an Indian male patient.
• The patient presented with the erythrodermic form of PKDL, a less common clinical presentation.
• Unusual dermatological manifestations included verrucous lesions, annular plaques, and mucosal ulcerations.

Findings:

• The patient exhibited an unusual spectrum of skin lesions characteristic of erythrodermic PKDL.
• The presence of verrucous, annular, and mucosal ulcerations represents atypical features for this condition.
• This case highlights the diverse clinical spectrum of Leishmania donovani-induced cutaneous manifestations.

Implications:

• Recognizing rare and atypical presentations of PKDL is crucial for timely diagnosis and effective management.
• This case expands the understanding of the clinical variability of postkala-azar dermal leishmaniasis.
• Further research into the pathogenesis of diverse PKDL presentations may inform treatment strategies.