First scientific evidence for a antibody response of leishmaniasis in Sri Lanka

What is it about?

First scientific evidence for a possible IgG antibody response associated with human cutaneous leishmaniasis in Sri Lanka is reported here. This may indicate presence of an immune response to a minor parasitemia in CL. However, ability of at least a proportion of CL infections to visceralize should not be disregarded. Visceral leishmaniasis has posed many difficulties in regional control initiatives in which Sri Lanka is not yet included [32, 33]. Limitations of the study to provide strong evidence for suggested possibilities include a relatively small sample size, failure to use an established serological tool for comparison, and lack of follow-up data. This preliminary report highlights the need for more in-depth studies in a larger patient sample with improved investigation tools. Furthermore, there can be a relationship between the clinical outcome and the immunogenic properties of the parasites. Study group represented different characteristics; current findings can be considered as a projection on the locally acquired leishmanial infections in the island.

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Why is it important?

First scientific evidence for a possible IgG antibody response associated with human cutaneous leishmaniasis in Sri Lanka is reported here. This may indicate presence of an immune response to a minor parasitemia in CL. However, ability of at least a proportion of CL infections to visceralize should not be disregarded. Visceral leishmaniasis has posed many difficulties in regional control initiatives in which Sri Lanka is not yet included.