[Visceral leishmaniasis].

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Parasitology
• Zoonotic Diseases

Background:

• Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is a globally prevalent infectious zoonotic disease.
• Protozoan parasites of the genus Leishmania, transmitted by sandflies, cause VL, with dogs as primary hosts.
• Prevalence in Germany is low, primarily affecting travelers from Mediterranean regions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize the key aspects of visceral leishmaniasis.
• To highlight diagnostic and treatment strategies for VL.
• To inform about risk factors and clinical presentations.

Main Methods:

• Diagnosis relies on polymerase chain reaction (PCR) of peripheral blood.
• Direct detection of Leishmania in bone marrow aspirates is another diagnostic method.
• Clinical symptoms and imaging findings are considered for diagnosis.

Main Results:

• Common clinical symptoms include fever, hepatosplenomegaly, and pancytopenia.
• Liver and spleen lesions can mimic other conditions, complicating diagnosis.
• Immunosuppressed individuals are at higher risk for severe VL.

Conclusions:

• Visceral leishmaniasis requires systemic antiparasitic drug treatment.
• Accurate diagnosis is crucial, distinguishing VL from other liver and spleen pathologies.
• Awareness of VL epidemiology and risk factors is important for affected populations.