Non-compaction cardiomyopathy and visceral leishmaniasis: uncommon combination with therapeutic challenges in a...

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Infectious Diseases
• Tropical Medicine

Background:

• Non-compaction cardiomyopathy (NCCM) is a rare congenital heart defect.
• Visceral leishmaniasis is a serious protozoal disease prevalent in tropical regions.
• Co-occurrence of these conditions is exceptionally rare.

Observation:

• A 6-year-old female presented with prolonged fever, weight loss, anemia, and hepatosplenomegaly.
• The patient developed heart failure during admission.
• The clinical presentation suggested an unusual combination of diseases.

Findings:

• The case details an unusual co-morbidity of non-compaction cardiomyopathy and visceral leishmaniasis.
• Diagnosis and management were complicated by the co-existing conditions.
• Therapeutic interventions were challenging within a resource-limited setting.

Implications:

• This case underscores the importance of considering rare co-morbidities in pediatric patients.
• Highlights diagnostic and therapeutic challenges in resource-limited settings for complex cases.
• Suggests the need for integrated approaches to manage both congenital heart defects and neglected tropical diseases.