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Cutaneous Leishmaniasis

All articles tagged with #cutaneous leishmaniasis

health2 years ago

"Rapid Spread of Tropical Disease in US via Sand Flies"

Cutaneous leishmaniasis, a tropical disease previously unseen in the United States, is spreading through the country via sand flies. The disease causes skin lesions and ulcers, which can lead to disfiguration. Cases have been identified in states like Texas and Arizona, and climate change is believed to be a contributing factor. There is currently no vaccine or specific treatment for the disease, so prevention through avoiding sandfly bites is crucial. Despite being endemic, the number of cases in the US remains relatively low.

health2 years ago

The Rising Threat of Leishmaniasis in the US

Cutaneous leishmaniasis, a tropical disease transmitted by sand flies, is becoming a growing concern in the southern United States. Cases have been detected in individuals with no travel history, indicating local transmission. Symptoms include skin sores that can change in size and appearance over time. Diagnosis is confirmed through clinical manifestations and treatment depends on various factors. Risk factors include poverty, poor living conditions, malnutrition, population mobility, and environmental changes. Currently, there are no vaccines or drugs to prevent leishmaniasis, but preventive measures such as avoiding sandfly bites and using insect repellent are recommended, especially when traveling to endemic areas.

health2 years ago

"Rapid Spread of Disfiguring Tropical Disease Alarms CDC Scientists in the US"

The CDC has discovered evidence of a unique strain of cutaneous leishmaniasis in U.S. residents with no travel history, indicating local transmission of the disease by domestic sandflies. This raises concerns that the more severe visceral leishmaniasis could establish in U.S. sandflies through imported dogs carrying the pathogen. Genetic analysis revealed a distinct genetic fingerprint of the disease in non-travelers, suggesting a locally derived strain. Cutaneous leishmaniasis can cause disfiguring scars and is mainly found in low-income countries. The CDC hopes that by identifying the emergence of locally acquired cases, it will be easier to detect the disease in new areas. Additionally, there is growing concern that imported dogs could introduce the life-threatening visceral leishmaniasis to domestic sandfly populations.