Knowra Leishmaniasis Leishmaniasis Leishmaniasis is a group of diseases caused by Leishmania parasites transmitted by infected sand flies. Its forms include cutaneous, mucosal, and visceral disease.
Leishmania : A genus of protozoan parasites that infect mammals and are transmitted by sand flies. These parasites cause every form of leishmaniasis and develop in human macrophages.
Cutaneous leishmaniasis : A form of leishmaniasis that causes one or more skin lesions, often ulcers, at parasite entry sites. It is the most common form and often leaves lasting scars.
Leishmaniasis diagnosis : The identification of leishmaniasis using clinical assessment and tests for parasites, parasite DNA, or immune responses. Different forms require sampling different tissues and interpreting results in clinical context.
Leishmaniasis epidemiology : The study of the distribution, determinants, and patterns of leishmaniasis in populations. It maps disease burden and identifies populations at elevated risk.
Sand fly control : Methods for reducing sand-fly populations or human contact with them to limit disease transmission. Control is difficult because vector behavior and breeding sites vary by species and setting.
Phlebotomine sand fly : A small blood-feeding fly in the subfamily Phlebotominae; some species transmit Leishmania parasites. Infected females introduce parasites while taking a blood meal.
Mucocutaneous leishmaniasis : A form of leishmaniasis that damages mucous membranes, especially in the nose, mouth, and throat. It can arise after cutaneous infection and progressively destroy facial tissues.
Leishmaniasis treatment : The use of medicines and supportive care to treat Leishmania infection and its clinical effects. Treatment choices vary with disease form, parasite species, geography, and patient health.
Leishmania tropica : A Leishmania species that causes cutaneous leishmaniasis, especially in parts of the Middle East and surrounding regions. It is associated with urban transmission and chronic skin lesions in several endemic areas.
Antileishmanial drug resistance : Reduced susceptibility of Leishmania parasites to medicines used to treat infection. Resistance threatens established regimens and complicates elimination efforts.
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