Leishmaniasis

Question 1

What are predisposing factors to leishmanisais?

Answer 1

chronic sand fly exposure, poverty, proximity to dogs/cats/rodents

Question 2

what is the incubation period for leishmanisais?

Answer 2

2 weeks to several months and cases up to 3 years; some >20 years

Question 3

what is the most common manifestation of leishmaniasis

Answer 3

cutaneous leishmaniasis, which is characterized by gradual onset cutaneous lesions.

Question 4

how do infections of cutaneous leishmaniasis differ from normal sand fly bites

Answer 4

begin as pink colored papule that enlarges to a nodule or plaque like lesion
it ulcerates with indurated border and may have thick white yellow fibrous material
lesions are often painless.

Question 5

how is a diagnosis made of leishmaniasis

Answer 5

Hx of sandfly bite, non healing lesion

lab confirmation involves microscopic exam of culture, stained, or molecular methods.

Question 6

IDC interventions for leishmaniasis

Answer 6

ulcers should be debrided and kept clean, bandaged, and wrapped.

Question 7

what is the treatments for leishmaniasis

Answer 7

Miltefosine- CL, MCL, and VL

“azoles” are not FDA indicated but have merit for treatment

VL- Amphotericin B deoxycholate