Leishmania donovani
Leishmania donovani is a species of parasite that is the causative agent of visceral leishmaniasis, also known as kala-azar.
Pronunciation
The pronunciation of Leishmania donovani is /ˌliʃˈmeɪniə dɒnəˈvaɪni/.
Etymology
The genus name Leishmania is named after the Scottish pathologist William Boog Leishman, who first discovered the parasite. The species name donovani is named after Charles Donovan, an Irish physician who independently discovered the parasite in India.
Description
Leishmania donovani is a protozoan parasite that belongs to the genus Leishmania. It is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected female sandflies. The parasite primarily infects the reticuloendothelial system, which includes the spleen, liver, and bone marrow.
Disease
Leishmania donovani causes visceral leishmaniasis, a severe disease that is potentially fatal if left untreated. Symptoms include fever, weight loss, enlargement of the spleen and liver, and anemia. The disease is prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions, including parts of India, Bangladesh, Sudan, and Brazil.
Treatment
Treatment for visceral leishmaniasis caused by Leishmania donovani includes antimonial drugs, amphotericin B, and miltefosine. However, resistance to these drugs is a growing concern.
Prevention
Prevention strategies for visceral leishmaniasis include vector control, such as the use of insecticide-treated nets, and early case detection and treatment.
See also
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