Cutaneous leishmaniasis factsheet
Introduction
Cutaneous leishmaniasis is a skin infection that causes ulcers or scabs on the skin of uncovered body parts, including the:
- wrists
- ankles
- lower legs
- face.
This infection is caused by the Leishmania parasite. Sandflies pick up the parasite from animals and spread it to humans when they bite the skin.
Sandflies in Australia do not spread the parasite. The infection develops in other countries, regions, and continents, including:
- Afghanistan
- Africa
- Pakistan
- South America.
- The Middle East, including Iran
Cutaneous leishmaniasis cannot be passed on from a child or adult to another person.
Signs and symptoms
Cutaneous leishmaniasis starts with a bump on the skin where a sandfly has bitten. As time goes on, the bump forms a scab and then becomes an ulcer with a hard edge and a sunken centre. These ulcers heal slowly and may change in size and appearance.
Diagnosis
Your child’s doctor can diagnose cutaneous leishmaniasis by:
- doing a physical examination
- testing a swab of the sores.
Treatment
Cutaneous leishmaniasis sores will grow and heal slowly. Mild cases will improve on their own but can leave permanent scars on the skin.
More severe or long-lasting sores can be treated with:
- medicine in liquid or tablet form
- medicine given directly into your child’s vein through an intravenous (IV) cannula
- repeated injections around the skin sore.
Sores are not infectious and cannot spread to other people. Covering the sores can help keep them clean and stop them from drying up, allowing them to heal better.
Management
School and other activities
Children with cutaneous leishmaniasis cannot spread the infection to others, so they can still attend school and participate in activities. However, because this condition is rare in Australia, other people may not know about it. Your child's treatment team can support you and give appropriate information to school, daycare, and other activities.
Managing scarring
Sores and scarring from cutaneous leishmaniasis can be difficult for children to manage, especially as they get older.
Parents and carers can support their child by:
- talking about the infection, how it happened, and how it’s treated
- encouraging them to help keep the sores clean and covered
- seeking help for any anxiety or depression that develops from having the skin condition or scars.
