Minnesota National Guard Warns Of Leishmaniasis

Minnesota National Guard web site

LeishmaniasisLeishmaniasis (LEASH-ma-NIGH-a-sis) is a parasitic disease spread by the bite of infected sand flies. There are several different forms of leishmaniasis. The most common forms are cutaneous leishmaniasis, which causes skin sores, and visceral leishmaniasis, which affects some of the internal organs of the body (for example, spleen, liver, bone marrow).

CUTANEOUS LEISHMANIASIS:
People who have cutaneous leishmaniasis have one or more sores on their skin. The sores can change in size and appearance over time. They often end up looking somewhat like a volcano, with a raised edge and central crater.

VISCERAL LEISHMANIASIS:
People who have visceral leishmaniasis usually have fever, weight loss, and an enlarged spleen and liver (usually the spleen is bigger than the liver). Some patients have swollen glands. Certain blood tests are abnormal.

TREATMENT:
If you suspect you are infected with leishmaniasis, consult a physician.
There are treatments available for leishmaniasis.
You will need to inform your physician that you were in a combat zone known to have leishmanisis.
They may need to call the CDC (Center for Disease Control) to obtain information on treatment.
Referance:
www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dpd/parasites/leishmania
or www.pdhealth.mil/leish.asp
http://www.minnesotanationalguard.org/returning_troops/health.php