Question
Visceral leishmaniasis
- Transmitted by sand fly
- Affects the reticuloendothelial system
- Diagnostic form is promastigote
- Effective vaccine is available for humans a) 1, 2, 3, 4 are correct b) 1, 2 are correct c) 1, 2, 3 are correct d) 1, 3, are correct
Answer
Key facts regarding visceral leishmaniasis (kala-azar): caused by Leishmania donovani, transmitted by the bite of the female sandfly (Phlebotomus species); characterized clinically by prolonged fever, progressive hepatosplenomegaly (splenomegaly typically more prominent than hepatomegaly), pancytopenia, and hyperpigmentation of the skin; diagnosed definitively by demonstration of LD (Leishman-Donovan) bodies in splenic or bone marrow aspirate, and supported by serological tests (e.g., rK39 rapid immunochromatographic test); treated with liposomal amphotericin B (now the first-line agent in India’s kala-azar elimination programme) or miltefosine. Without the original four numbered statements from the source question, the specific combination intended by the examiner cannot be confirmed.