Pediatric dermatology: Cutaneous and mucocutaneous Leishmaniasis

Leishmaniasis is a widespread parasitic disease seen predominantly in children and young adults, although it may occur in patients at any age. Children are particularly susceptible while playing outdoors, since the Leishmania parasite is transmitted by the bite of a sandfly.(1-3) This dreaded disease is characterized by ulcers on the face and extremities, which, even after healing, may disfigure the child for life.(4-6) The parasite affects twelve million people worldwide, which probably ranks it second to malaria as a public health concern.(7) Although most cases of leishmaniasis occur in Asia, Africa, the Mediterranean region, and South America, it has been on the rise in the United States. This increase is attributed to international travel from endemic regions, whether by immigrants, tourists, or young soldiers returning from war. Moreover, the disease is endemic in southern Texas, where a growing number of cases are being reported due to heightened awareness of the disease.(8,9).