Leishmaniasis: An Emerging and Re-emerging Disease of Global Public Health Concern

Abstract

Emerging and re-emerging diseases are causing health and economic concerns in developing as well as developed nations of the world. Leishmaniasis is an emerging and re-emerging parasitic disease caused by a protozoa belonging to the Trypanosomatidae family, Kinetoplastida order, and Leishmania genus. The female infected sand fly transmits the disease to the vertebrate host. The following are the several kinds of leishmaniasis: The most deadly form of leishmaniasis is visceral leishmaniasis, which can be fatal if left untreated. Cutaneous leishmaniasis is the most prevalent type of leishmaniasis, which causes a sore at the bite site. Mucocutaneous leishmaniasis begins with skin ulcers that extend to the nose, mouth, and throat, causing tissue damage. Rodents, edentates, canids, procyonids, marsupials, primitive ungulates, and primates are possible disease's reservoir. Direct visualization of the amastigotes in the haematology laboratory is used to diagnose leishmaniasis (Leishman-Donovan bodies). If leishmaniasis in dogs is to be suspected and diagnosed, it is critical to recognize the clinicopathologic features associated with the disease. Finally, demonstrating Leishmania sp. amastigotes, either cytologically or histopathologically, is the most reliable diagnostic test. Controlling sand flies and taking precautions to avoid exposure to them can help to prevent and control canine and human leishmaniasis.