Post-kala-azar dermal leishmaniasis (PKDL) in India is caused by which species and typically appears after treatment of visceral leishmaniasis by what time interval?

• A L. donovani; appears 6 months to 1–3 years after treatment ✓
• B L. tropica; appears 1–2 weeks after treatment
• C L. braziliensis; appears at the time of active kala-azar
• D L. major; appears simultaneously with kala-azar resolution

Explanation

PKDL in India is caused by Leishmania donovani (the same species causing visceral leishmaniasis/kala-azar). It typically manifests 6 months to 1–3 years after apparent cure of visceral leishmaniasis, presenting as hypopigmented macules on the face progressing to nodules. In Sudan, PKDL may occur during or shortly after treatment. PKDL is an epidemiologically important reservoir of infection. Treatment requires extended courses of miltefosine or liposomal amphotericin B. L. tropica causes cutaneous leishmaniasis; L. braziliensis causes mucocutaneous leishmaniasis.

Reference: Neena Khanna Illustrated Synopsis of Dermatology & STD, 6th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.