Visceral leishmaniasis associated hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis

Abstract

Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is caused by the dissemination of the protozoan parasite Leishmania donovani throughout the reticuloendothelial system. This systemic disease may mimic or lead to several types of hematological disorders including hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH). Infection associated hemophagocytic syndrome caused by Leishmania is very rare and difficult to diagnose. Herein, we describe an infant with HLH associated with VL. The severity of HLH secondary to visceral leishmaniasis ranges from pure biological forms that resolve with antimicrobial therapy to life-threatening emergencies that require specific treatment. Our patient was treated with meglumine antimoniate. The outcome of the disease was favorable with a follow-up of 12 months