Kala Azar, also known as Leishmaniasis, is a parasitic disease transmitted through the bite of sandflies. It manifests in two forms: cutaneous leishmaniasis, affecting the skin, and visceral leishmaniasis, which affects internal organs and can be fatal. Sandflies carrying the parasite are commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions, making treatment challenging due to limited access.
Causes of Kala Azar:
The disease is caused by the genus Leishmania parasites transmitted through sandfly bites. Parasites multiply within female sandflies, thriving in humid environments, particularly during warmer months. Domestic animals like dogs serve as reservoirs for the parasite, facilitating transmission to humans.
Signs and Symptoms:
- Painless skin ulcers
- Stuffy or runny nose, nosebleeds
- Difficulty breathing
- Weight loss and weakness
- Cough and fever
- Enlarged spleen and liver
- Decreased red blood cell production
- Hair thinning
- Night sweats
Treatment:
- Antiparasitic drugs like amphotericin B are used for Kala Azar treatment.
- Cutaneous leishmaniasis ulcers may heal on their own but can be treated to speed up healing and reduce scarring. Severe facial ulcers may require plastic surgery.
- Visceral leishmaniasis, being fatal, requires treatment. Medications such as meglumine antimoniate and sodium stibogluconate, which contain antimony compounds, are commonly used.