Severe Mucocutaneous leishmaniasis

Severe Mucocutaneous Leishmaniasis

Severe mucocutaneous leishmaniasis, also calledespundia, is a rare form of cutaneous leishmaniasis caused by protozoans of the genus Leishmania. It is the most severe form of the disease and is usually seen in individuals from rural populations. The most common sites of infection are the nasal and oral cavities, although other mucous membranes can be affected as well. The disease is most common in Central and South America, East and West Africa, and the Indian subcontinent, although it has been reported in other parts of the world.

In most cases, severe mucocutaneous leishmaniasis is caused by Leishmania braziliensis, Leishmania peruviana, and Leishmania major. It is usually transmitted through the bite of an infected sand fly.

The main symptom of severe mucocutaneous leishmaniasis is disfigurement and destruction of the mucous membrane. Symptoms may include:

• Ulcerations and nodules in the nasal, oral, or genital mucous membranes
• Scarring and destruction of the tissue
• Nosebleeds
• Growth of the nasal or oral tissue (nasal or oral hypertrophy)
• Bone erosion and destruction
• Disfigurement of the face
• Respiratory and hearing problems

Diagnosis of severe mucocutaneous leishmaniasis is usually based on clinical evaluation and histological examination of the affected tissue. The most common laboratory tests used to confirm the diagnosis are smear microscopy, culture, and skin biopsy.

Treatment for severe mucocutaneous leishmaniasis is usually a combination of medications, including antimonials, liposomal amphotericin B, and pentavalent antimony. Surgery may be necessary for extensive damage to the mucous membranes. The prognosis is usually good, but the disfigurement is usually permanent.