Leishmaniasis is a parasitic disease caused by protozoan parasites of the Leishmania genus.

The disease is transmitted to humans and animals through the bites of infected female sandflies, which typically live in tropical and subtropical regions of the world.

There are three main forms of Leishmaniasis: cutaneous, visceral, and mucocutaneous.

Cutaneous Leishmaniasis is the most common form of the disease and is characterized by skin ulcers that develop at the site of the sandfly bite.

Visceral Leishmaniasis is the most severe form of the disease and can cause fever, weight loss, and damage to internal organs such as the spleen and liver.

Mucocutaneous Leishmaniasis can cause disfiguring lesions on the mucous membranes of the nose, mouth, and throat.

Leishmaniasis is endemic in many parts of the world, including Africa, Asia, and the Americas.

The disease is more common in people who live in poverty or who have weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS.

Diagnosis of Leishmaniasis can be made through blood tests, skin biopsies, or other laboratory methods.

Treatment of Leishmaniasis typically involves antiparasitic medications such as pentavalent antimonials, amphotericin B, or miltefosine.

In severe cases, hospitalization and supportive care may be required.

Prevention measures include wearing protective clothing, using insect repellent, and controlling the sandfly population through insecticide spraying or environmental modifications.

There is no vaccine available for Leishmaniasis.

Untreated Visceral Leishmaniasis can be fatal, with a mortality rate of up to 100% in some regions.

Leishmaniasis is a neglected tropical disease that disproportionately affects marginalized communities and is considered a major public health problem in many parts of the world.