Observational Study on Nephrotoxicity, Hepatotoxicity and Electrolytes Imbalance Induced by Amphotericin B in Kala-Azar Patients

Abstract

Leishmaniasis is a disease caused by protozoan parasites that belong to the genus Leishmania and is transmitted by the bite of certain species of sand fly (subfamily Phlebotominae). It is the second largest parasitic killer in the world (after malaria), responsible for an estimated 500,000 cases each year worldwide.⁽¹⁾ the parasite migrates to the internal organs such as liver, spleen (hence 'visceral)' and bone marrow and if left untreated will almost always result in the death of the host. Signs and symptoms include fever, weight loss, mucosal ulcers, fatigue, anemia and substantial swelling of the liver and spleen. Of particular concern, according to the world health organization (WHO), is the emerging problem of HIV/VL co-infection.⁽²⁾

KEY-WORDS: Amphotericin B, Visceral Leishmaniasis (kala-azar).