Leishmania viannia braziliensis is a subspecies of the parasite Leishmania, which is responsible for causing a severe form of leishmaniasis known as cutaneous leishmaniasis. It is endemic to several South American countries, primarily Brazil, hence its name.
Leishmania viannia braziliensis is a unicellular protozoan parasite that belongs to the family Trypanosomatidae. It is a microscopic organism, typically measuring between 2 to 3.5 micrometers in length. The parasite has a single flagellum, a rod-shaped nucleus, and resides within host cells such as macrophages.
Infection with Leishmania viannia braziliensis occurs when an individual is bitten by infected sandflies belonging to the Lutzomyia genus. The infection primarily affects the skin, as the parasite enters through the bite wound and invades the macrophages, leading to the formation of skin lesions.
The cutaneous leishmaniasis caused by Leishmania viannia braziliensis usually manifests as multiple ulcers or nodules on the skin, often with raised borders and a central crust. The lesions can be painful and leave scars once healed. If left untreated, the infection can spread to the mucous membranes and result in mucocutaneous leishmaniasis, which affects the nose, mouth, and throat.
Treatment for Leishmania viannia braziliensis infection typically involves the administration of antiparasitic drugs, such as pentavalent antimonials or miltefosine, for a specified duration based on the severity and location of the lesions.
