Leishmania braziliensis braziliensis is a subspecies of the Leishmania braziliensis species, which is a microscopic parasitic protozoan that belongs to the Trypanosomatidae family. This subspecies is primarily found in South America, particularly in Brazil, and it is responsible for causing a severe and potentially disfiguring disease known as cutaneous leishmaniasis.
Cutaneous leishmaniasis is a vector-borne disease transmitted to humans through the bite of infected sandflies. Once the parasites enter the human body, they invade and multiply within certain white blood cells known as macrophages, leading to the formation of skin lesions. Leishmania braziliensis braziliensis is known to exhibit a higher tropism for mucosal membranes, hence, individuals infected by this subspecies may also develop mucosal leishmaniasis, which affects the nasal, oral, and throat regions.
The primary symptoms of infection with Leishmania braziliensis braziliensis involve the appearance of one or more skin lesions that may evolve into ulcers with raised borders. These lesions can be painful, ulcerate, and leave permanent scars or disfigurement if not treated in a timely manner. In addition to the skin and mucosal involvement, other symptoms associated with this subspecies include fever, fatigue, weight loss, and general malaise.
The diagnosis of Leishmania braziliensis braziliensis is achieved through microscopic examination of a skin biopsy or fluid sample, which reveals the presence of amastigotes – the intracellular form of the parasite. Treatment for this subspecies typically involves antimonial drugs or other medications such as pentamidine or amphotericin B, depending on the severity and location of the infection.
