Microbial perils of the tropics: A case of cutaneous leishmaniasis in an immigrant from South America

Abstract

Cutaneous leishmaniasis is an important cause of nonhealing lesions in those recently immigrated to the United States from endemic areas. The lesions can present with various characteristics such as ulcerations, macules, or papules, and may be painful or painless. Several diagnostic modalities, including polymerase chain reaction testing, should be performed to identify the causative Leishmania species which is important in determining appropriate treatment. We describe a case of cutaneous leishmaniasis caused by Leishmania panamensis in a patient who recently traveled through South and Central America.

Keywords

• Cutaneous leishmaniasis
• Leishmania panamensis
• Paradoxical reaction
• Miltefosine