Ocular Leishmaniasis Presenting as Chronic Ulcerative Blepharoconjunctivitis: A Case Report

Abstract

Leishmaniasis is caused by unicellular eukaryotic obligate intracellular protozoa of the genus Leishmania that is endemic in over 98 countries in the world-most of which are developing countries including Ethiopia. It is transmitted by phlebotomine sandflies. The eye may be affected in cutaneous, mucocutaneous and Post Kala-Azar Dermal Leishmaniasis. We report a case of ocular leishmaniasis with eyelid and conjunctival involvement that had simulated ulcerative blepharoconjunctivitis not responding to conventional antibiotics. The patient was diagnosed by microscopy of a sample obtained via direct smear from the lesions. He was treated with systemic sodium stibogluconate (20 mg/kg/day) for 45 days and was clinically cured with this treatment.

Ocular Leishmaniasis - A systematic review

“…Though well described, adnexal Leishmaniasis may be a diagnostic challenge, particularly in non-endemic areas or when it is not accompanied by any cutaneous lesions elsewhere on the body. [ 16 17 ] Authors have reported a long list of differentials, including chronic blepharitis,[ 18 ] pterygium,[ 17 ] hordeolum,[ 19 ] basal cell carcinoma,[ 20 ] squamous cell carcinoma,[ 16 ] impetigo,[ 21 ] histoplasmosis,[ 22 ] and an infected infundibular cyst. [ 23 ] Leishmaniasis can mimic many conditions and as such, a high index of suspicion is required.…”