Kala-azar [visceral leishmaniasis] in children

ABSTRACT

Thirty children with Kala- azar [Visceral Leishmaniasis] were studied at the Children Hospital, Medical City, over a period f two years [1989- 1990]. All were less than 3 years of age. The disease was found to be endemic in certain areas around the capital Baghdad, and near to the river, with increased morbidity during winter and spring months. Its clinical presentation were mainly prolonged fryer, pallor, loss of weight, abdominal distension and splenomegaly. The presence of jaundice indicates a severe form of the disease and carries poor prognosis. Imniunofluorescent antibody test [IFAT] is the most valuable test for diagnosis. Sodium Stibogluconate [Pentostam] is the drug of choice for the first time steroids has been used and found to be useful additional therapy in the very ill jaundiced patients