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Published in: Indian Journal of Hematology and Blood Transfusion 3/2010

01-09-2010 | Review

Hematologic Changes in Visceral Leishmaniasis/Kala Azar

Authors: Neelam Varma, Shano Naseem

Published in: Indian Journal of Hematology and Blood Transfusion | Issue 3/2010

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Abstract

Visceral Leishmaniasis (VL) or Kala Azar is a chronic infectious disease caused by parasites of the Leishmania donovani complex that can cause various hematologic manifestations. It is characterized by fever, enlargement of liver and spleen, weight loss, pancytopenia and hypergammaglobinemia. It is endemic in the Indian subcontinent, mainly seen in the states of Bihar and West Bengal. Patients with VL can present to the haematologist for various haematological problems prior to receiving the diagnosis of VL. Anaemia is the most common haematological manifestation of VL. VL may also be associated with leucopenia, thrombocytopenia, pancytopenia, hemophagocytosis and disseminated intravascular coagulation. Hematological improvement is noted within a week and complete hematological response occurs in 4–6 weeks of treatment. Relapses are rare and increased risk of being diagnosed with hematolymphoid malignancies on long term follow up is not noted.
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Metadata
Title
Hematologic Changes in Visceral Leishmaniasis/Kala Azar
Authors
Neelam Varma
Shano Naseem
Publication date
01-09-2010
Publisher
Springer-Verlag
Published in
Indian Journal of Hematology and Blood Transfusion / Issue 3/2010
Print ISSN: 0971-4502
Electronic ISSN: 0974-0449
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s12288-010-0027-1

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