Leishmaniasis

Any of a variety of diseases caused by single-celled parasites called leishmania. These parasites are harboured by dogs and rodents and are transmitted by the bites of sandflies. The most serious form of leishmaniasis is called kala-azar or visceral leishmaniasis. This disease is prevalent in some parts of Asia, Africa, and South America, and also occurs in some Mediterranean countries. In addition, there are several types of cutaneous leishmaniasis, some of which are prevalent in the Middle East, North Africa, and in the Mediterranean. Kala-azar causes persistent fever, enlargement of the spleen, anaemia, and, later, darkening of the skin. The illness may develop any time up to 2 years after infection, and, if untreated, may be fatal. The cutaneous forms have the appearance of a persistent ulcer at the site of the sandfly bite. All varieties of leishmaniasis can be treated with drugs, such as sodium stibogluconate, given by intramuscular or intravenous injection.