Leishmaniasis is a chronic parasitic disease that affects humans and animals and is transmitted through the bite of an infected sandfly. This disease is considered a neglected disease in many regions, especially in tropical and subtropical areas, where it poses a significant health burden due to its complications and impact on public health.<br /><br />Leishmaniasis is a disease caused by protozoan parasites of the genus Leishmania. There are several types of leishmania, each causing a different form of the disease, including:<br />Cutaneous leishmaniasis: appears as painful or painless skin ulcers.<br />Visceral (cystic) leishmaniasis: affects internal organs such as the spleen and liver.<br />Mucosal leishmaniasis: affects the mucous membranes of the nose, mouth, and throat.<br /><br />How the Disease is Transmitted<br />Leishmaniasis is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected female sandfly. After entering the body, the parasite settles in immune cells and begins to multiply, causing various symptoms.<br /><br />Symptoms of Leishmaniasis<br />Symptoms vary depending on the type of leishmaniasis:<br />Cutaneous leishmaniasis: begins with a small red spot that develops into a sore over time, which may or may not be painful, leaving scars after healing.<br />Visceral leishmaniasis: symptoms include persistent fever, weight loss, enlarged spleen and liver, and anemia.<br />Mucosal leishmaniasis: causes erosion of the mucous membranes of the nose and mouth, leading to painful disfigurements.<br /><br />Diagnosis<br />Leishmaniasis is diagnosed through:<br />Clinical examination of symptoms.<br />Samples of affected skin or organs are taken for laboratory analysis.<br />Advanced techniques such as PCR are used to detect the parasite.<br /><br />Treatment and Prevention<br />Treatment:<br />Depends on the type and severity of the disease and includes the use of antiparasitic medications such as amphotericin B and melefantrine.<br />In cases of cutaneous leishmaniasis, topical or surgical treatments may be used.<br />Treatment must be started early to avoid complications.<br />Prevention:<br />Use mosquito nets and insecticides.<br />Wear clothing that covers the body in infested areas.<br />Avoid areas with high sandfly prevalence, especially during their active times.<br />Control sandfly reservoirs and animal waste.<br /><br />Al-Mustaqbal University is the first university in Iraq.<br /><br/><br/><a href=https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/education/ target=_blank>Goal 4 - Quality Education</a>