Abstract
Background: Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) has a high incidence worldwide. Most individuals with CL develop the cutaneous form, but subclinical infections may occur. Objective: The present study used different laboratory methods [polymerase chain reaction (PCR), indirect immunofluorescence (IIF) and enzyme reaction immunoassay (ELISA)] to investigate the incidence, and monitor individuals with subclinical infections. Patients and methods: The six individuals with subclinical infections included residents of a CL endemic area. Collections of biological material were carried out for nearly three years. Results: Two of these individuals were positive for Leishmania, one of them by PCR and the other by PCR, IIF and ELISA after previous negative results. Conclusion: The presence of a subclinical infection suggests the development of an appropriate immune response that can control replication of the parasite and maintain the integrity of the tissue. Individuals with subclinical infections must be correctly diagnosed and monitored using different methods, because of the possibility of the development of the mucosal form, and may serve as reservoirs for the insect vector.
Highlights
Leishmaniasis is a commonest parasitic disease in the world and a recent review shows that over 98 countries and territories are endemic for leishmaniasis [1]
The presence of a subclinical infection suggests the development of an appropriate immune response that can control replication of the parasite and maintain the integrity of the tissue
Given the presence of residents in an endemic area of Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) who showed anti-Leishmania antibodies, by means of the ELISA, but showed no lesion characteristic of the disease, this study investigate the incidence, and monitored such individuals with subclinical infections, using different laboratory methods
Summary
Leishmaniasis is a commonest parasitic disease in the world and a recent review shows that over 98 countries and territories are endemic for leishmaniasis [1]. Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is a serious publichealth problem because of its high incidence [1], and the chance of lesions and disabling and destructive forms, with great impact on the psychosocial situation of individuals [2]. CL has been reported worldwide, and is endemic in several regions [3]. The disease affects both sexes and all age groups. CL normally occurs in the cutaneous form, and in Brazil is caused mainly by Leishmania (Viannia) braziliensis. Lesions caused by this parasite can result in the mucosal form, destroying cartilage and causing disfiguring lesions, and the disease is potentially fatal if untreated [3]. Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) has a high incidence worldwide. Most individuals with CL develop the cutaneous form, but subclinical infections may occur
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