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Kala azar with disseminated dermal leishmaniasis
The American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene
|February 1, 1989
Summary
This report details five cases of kala azar presenting with widespread skin leishmaniasis. All patients showed fever, enlarged spleen and liver, and skin lesions, responding well to Glucantime treatment.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Dermatology
- Parasitology
Background:
- Kala azar, also known as visceral leishmaniasis, is a severe parasitic disease.
- Disseminated dermal leishmaniasis is a rare but serious manifestation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize clinical findings and treatment outcomes in five cases of kala azar with disseminated dermal leishmaniasis.
- To highlight the diagnostic features and therapeutic response in this specific patient cohort.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective case series analysis.
- Clinical data collection including symptoms, physical examination findings, and treatment response.
- Microscopic examination of bone marrow aspirates and skin biopsies for Leishmania amastigotes.
Main Results:
- All five patients presented with fever, hepatosplenomegaly, and diverse skin lesions (maculopapular, pustular, maculonodular) primarily on the face and extremities.
- Abundant Leishmania amastigotes were identified in bone marrow and skin biopsies.
- Complete resolution of symptoms and lesions was observed in all patients following Glucantime therapy.
Conclusions:
- Disseminated dermal leishmaniasis is a significant clinical presentation of kala azar.
- Prompt diagnosis through parasitological confirmation is crucial.
- Glucantime (meglumine antimoniate) is an effective treatment for this condition.