.webp&w=384&q=75){kind=logo}
Loading, please wait...
Loading, please wait...
Cutaneous leishmaniasis is a significant global health issue that often affects travelers returning from endemic regions. Recently, medical professionals identified the first imported case of New World cutaneous leishmaniasis in Romania. A 25-year-old woman developed progressive skin lesions after visiting Panama and Costa Rica. Because Romania is a non-endemic country, the diagnosis initially proved difficult.
Initially, a standard skin biopsy showed only nonspecific inflammation. Consequently, the medical team performed a second biopsy. This deeper investigation successfully identified amastigotes within the patient's macrophages. To confirm the specific species, specialists used advanced molecular tools. Both ITS1 sequencing and hsp70 phylogenetic analysis verified the presence of Leishmania panamensis.
Clinicians chose oral miltefosine as the primary treatment for this patient. She followed a 28-day regimen, which led to a gradual but steady improvement of her skin lesions. Ultimately, the ulcers healed completely, leaving only minor atrophic scars. Most importantly, follow-up evaluations after 473 days showed no signs of disease relapse.
This case emphasizes why doctors in non-endemic regions must stay alert. Early recognition of New World cutaneous leishmaniasis prevents the progression to more severe mucocutaneous forms. Therefore, healthcare systems should prioritize access to molecular diagnostic tools for travelers with suspicious skin lesions.
Symptoms typically include progressive, painless skin ulcers that develop weeks or months after a sandfly bite. These lesions often appear on exposed areas like the arms or face.
Miltefosine is an oral medication usually taken for 28 days. It is highly effective against specific species like L. panamensis and offers a convenient alternative to injectable treatments.
Molecular tests such as PCR and hsp70 sequencing are essential for species identification. Different Leishmania species require different management strategies and carry varying risks of complications.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice or a professional diagnosis. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Refer to the latest local and national guidelines for clinical practice.
References
Mihalca AD et al. First imported case of New World leishmaniasis in Romania: diagnostic and therapeutic challenges in a non-endemic country. Infect Dis Poverty. 2026 May 02. doi: undefined. PMID: 42067954.
Soto J, Berman J. Treatment of New World cutaneous leishmaniasis with miltefosine. Trans R Soc Trop Med Hyg. 2006 Dec;100 Suppl 1:S34-40. doi: 10.1016/j.trstmh.2006.02.022.
World Health Organization. Leishmaniasis Fact Sheet. [Online] Available at: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/leishmaniasis
Read summarized clinical updates, watch expert medical content, and earn CME certifications right from your smartphone.
Open your smartphone camera to scan and install.
A case report of Romania's first New World cutaneous leishmaniasis case, highlighting the success of molecular diagnostics and miltefosine therapy....
4 months ago
Explore the emerging role of Brixadi, an extended-release buprenorphine injection, for managing stimulant use disorder through kappa opioid receptor antagonism and steady plasma levels.
Today
A premature neonate developed upper limb compartment syndrome after uterine rupture extruded the arm through a scar defect. Conservative management with continuous monitoring yielded complete functional recovery and normal limb growth at 10-year follow-up, highlighting non-operative safety in selected cases.
Today
Dendritic cells bridge innate and adaptive immunity in myocardial infarction. This review explores their pathological roles, circulating dynamics, novel tolerogenic interventions, and how standard cardiovascular medications modulate dendritic cells to improve post-infarction myocardial repair and patient outcomes.
Today
Endoscopic posterior cervical fusion combines minimally invasive decompression, joint preparation, and rigid screw-rod fixation for atlantoaxial pathologies. Early clinical findings demonstrate solid bony union, excellent symptom relief, and minimal soft-tissue morbidity without significant vascular compromise.
Yesterday
Atherosclerosis involves extensive glycometabolic reprogramming across immune and vascular cells. This review examines how glycolysis, the pentose phosphate pathway, and lactate-driven epigenetic shifts fuel plaque vulnerability, while highlighting novel therapeutic targets like PFKFB3 and LDHA.
Today
