Viscerotropic leishmaniasis
Viscerotropic Leishmaniasis
Viscerotropic leishmaniasis (pronounced: vis-er-o-tropic leish-ma-ni-a-sis), also known as Visceral leishmaniasis or Kala-azar, is a severe form of leishmaniasis, a disease caused by protozoan parasites of the genus Leishmania. The term "viscerotropic" refers to the tendency of the parasites to target the internal organs, or viscera.
Etymology
The term "viscerotropic leishmaniasis" is derived from the Greek words "viscera" meaning internal organs, and "tropic" meaning turning towards. "Leishmaniasis" is named after the British pathologist William Boog Leishman, who first identified the parasite.
Symptoms
Viscerotropic leishmaniasis is characterized by fever, weight loss, enlargement of the spleen and liver, and anemia. If left untreated, the disease can be fatal.
Transmission
The disease is transmitted through the bite of infected female sandflies. The parasites multiply in the internal organs, particularly the spleen, liver, and bone marrow.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of viscerotropic leishmaniasis is typically made through a combination of clinical symptoms and laboratory tests, including blood tests and tissue samples.
Treatment
Treatment for viscerotropic leishmaniasis typically involves antiparasitic drugs. In severe cases, supportive care such as blood transfusions may be necessary.
Prevention
Prevention of viscerotropic leishmaniasis primarily involves control of sandfly populations and use of personal protective measures to prevent sandfly bites.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Viscerotropic leishmaniasis
- Wikipedia's article - Viscerotropic leishmaniasis
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