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Leishmaniasis — SCE Infectious Diseases MCQ

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HardTropical & Imported InfectionsLeishmaniasisSCE Infectious Diseases

A patient from East Africa has prolonged fever, weight loss, massive splenomegaly, pancytopenia and Leishman–Donovan bodies in marrow macrophages. What diagnosis and UK treatment best fit?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: DVisceral leishmaniasis treated with specialist-directed liposomal amphotericin B

The best answer is “Visceral leishmaniasis treated with specialist-directed liposomal amphotericin B”. The reticuloendothelial syndrome and intracellular amastigotes identify visceral leishmaniasis; liposomal amphotericin B is preferred in UK specialist practice, with schedule modified for host factors. Species, geography, lesion burden, immune status and mucosal risk determine whether cutaneous leishmaniasis needs local or systemic treatment.

Reference: WHO leishmaniasis fact sheet: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/leishmaniasis