A severe acute cholestatic hepatitis due to visceral leishmaniasis in a child using monoclonal antibodies and systemic steroids

Abstract

Acute cholestatic hepatitis is a rare but potentially severe manifestation of visceral leishmaniasis. There are few described pediatric cases of acute hepatitis due to leishmaniasis, and to our knowledge, this is the first reported case in a pediatric patient with associated monoclonal antibody therapy. The novelty of monoclonal antibodies requires further investigation of their potential involvement in systemic infections. The development of haemophagocytic syndrome in visceral leishmaniasis is very rare and can represent an additional challenge in diagnosis and management.