A Rare Case of Visceral Leishmaniasis Diagnosed by Endoscopy in an Anemic Patient With HIV/AIDS

Abstract

ABSTRACT Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is a rare protozoan parasitic disease transmitted by sandfly vectors predominantly found in Asia and Central America. Although far less common than cutaneous leishmaniasis, VL carries a higher mortality burden because of its propensity to cause emaciation and marked anemia through bone marrow infiltration. Treatment is particularly challenging in patients coinfected with HIV before both infections work synergistically to perpetuate immunosuppression, further promoting higher viral loads and disease burden. In comparison with those without HIV, these patients have poorer treatment responses and higher rates of relapse. We describe a case of VL in an anemic patient with HIV/AIDS diagnosed during esophagogastroduodenoscopy. We also present challenges to treatment, adverse drug side effects, and long-term sequelae.