Azar Kala - Symptom, Treatment and cause of Azar Kala

Azar Kala Description

(Visceral Leischmaniasis)

Widespread internal infection by a protozoan (tiny single celled animal).

Kala Azar Cause

The protozoan Leischmania donovoni is transmitted from one person to another by sand flies. Found throughout the tropics in America, Asia and Africa.

Azar Kala Symptom

Slow onset with fever, enlarged spleen and liver, anaemia, weight loss, pigmentation of skin on face (mainly forehead) and hands.

Investigation

Diagnosed by blood tests and biopsy of liver or spleen.

Azar Kala Treatment

Quite toxic medications must be given regularly by injection for a long time to control the infection.

Complications

Bleeding from the nose and mouth, and warty skin ulcers.

Prognosis of Kala Azar

Fatal without treatment. Recurrences common for years after apparent successful treatment. Cure difficult.