Diseases
Leishmania infantum
Leishmania infantum is a protozoan parasite responsible for the disease leishmaniasis. Leishmania is found worldwide in the tropics and subtropics, including the Mediterranean regions. Transmission occurs through the bite of the sandfly.
Different types of leishmaniasis
There are different types of leishmaniasis, including visceral leishmaniasis, also known as Kala-Azar, as well as cutaneous leishmaniasis and mucocutaneous leishmaniasis. Visceral leishmaniasis is the most severe form and affects the internal organs.
- Visceral leishmaniasis affects the organs. The pathogens are L. donovani, and in Europe, L. infantum.
- Cutaneous leishmaniasis only affects the skin. The pathogens are L. tropica major, L. tropica minor, L. tropica infantum, and L. aethiopica.
- Mucocutaneous leishmaniasis affects both the skin and the mucous membranes. The pathogen is L. braziliensis.
There is no commercially available vaccine against leishmaniasis. Prevention mainly focuses on avoiding contact with sandflies. Measures to control sandflies, such as wearing long-sleeved clothing and using insect repellents, can help reduce the transmission of Leishmania infantum.
Further informations
Leishmania infantum
Leishmania infantum: A protozoan parasite of the genus Leishmania
Infected sandflies of the genus Phlebotomus.
- Persistent fever
- Weight loss
- Enlarged liver and spleen
- Anemia
- Leukopenia
- Residence in endemic areas
- Immune suppression
- Lack of protective measures against insect bites
- Poor hygiene
