Abstract
Visceral leishmaniasis is caused by a protozoan parasite L. donovani. The most of the cases are reported from India.
The disease is characterized by prolonged fever with hepatosplenomegaly, anorexia with weight loss, progressive anemia, pancytopenia, hypergammaglobulinemia, darkening of the skin and heavy infectious complications. The disease is often fatal without treatment.
Direct detection or indirect demonstration of antibodies are used for diagnostics. Antimony salts, Amphotericin B and Miltefosin are used for the treatment.