Progressive visceral leishmaniasis misdiagnosed as cirrhosis of the liver: a case report

<p>Abstract</p> <p>Introduction</p> <p>Visceral leishmaniasis is a potentially life-threatening infectious disease which is caused by parasites of the genus <it>Leishmania</it> and characterized in most cases by the presence of fever as well as signs and symptoms similar to those found in liver cirrhosis.</p> <p>Case presentation</p> <p>In this case report we describe the history of a 50-year-old Caucasian man incorrectly diagnosed as having hepatitis C virus-associated liver cirrhosis, with a massive weight loss of around 100 kg during the previous 2 years. However, suspecting a lymphoproliferative disorder, we were able to make a correct diagnosis of visceral leishmaniasis by bone marrow examination. After a course of therapy with Liposomal Amphotericin-B the patient recovered and now, 20 months post-treatment, he is well and has regained a good part of the lost weight.</p> <p>Conclusions</p> <p>This case taught us that patients with massive splenomegaly, even with a diagnosis of liver cirrhosis, should be investigated for infectious or lymphoproliferative diseases.</p>

Abstract licence: CC BY-NC-ND

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