Cutaneous and Mucocutaneous Leishmaniasis

Leishmaniasis is a chronic disease caused by flagellate protozoa of the genus Leishmania. It is a global disease, but most cases are seen in South America, the Mediterranean, and some areas of Asia and Africa. The 3 main types of leishmaniasis are cutaneous (the most common), mucocutaneous, and visceral (the most severe). Visceral leishmaniasis is also known as kala-azar. Leishmaniasis is diagnosed by demonstrating the presence of Leishmania amastigotes in clinical specimens using direct microscopic examination or molecular analysis. Various treatments exist, although the evidence supporting the options available for cutaneous leishmaniasis is weak. Both the classical presentation of leishmaniasis and our management of the disease have changed in recent decades because of acquired immune deficiency caused by conditions such as HIV infection or the use of TNF inhibitors. (C) 2021 AEDV. Published by Elsevier Espana, S.L.U.

Automated summary

Leishmaniasis is a chronic disease caused by flagellate protozoa of the genus Leishmania, with the three main types being cutaneous, mucocutaneous, and visceral. Diagnosis is done through direct microscopic examination or molecular analysis, while treatments vary but evidence for options available for cutaneous leishmaniasis is weak. The disease presentation and management have changed in recent decades due to acquired immune deficiency from conditions like HIV infection or TNF inhibitors.