Leishmaniasis presenting to the otolaryngologist: a rare but important cause of persistent hoarseness.
OBJECTIVE
We report a rare UK case of laryngeal leishmaniasis, mimicking laryngeal candidiasis, associated with long term steroid inhaler use.


METHODS
Case report and review of the world literature concerning leishmaniasis.


RESULTS
Laryngeal leishmaniasis is a protozoal infection which is rare in the Western world. It is becoming more common, however, with increased foreign travel. The disease can be difficult to diagnose histologically, and diagnosis is often delayed because of its rarity. It can mimic malignant laryngeal disease, and patients may therefore be subjected to significant and inappropriate treatment interventions.


CONCLUSIONS
A diagnosis of leishmaniasis should be considered if initial treatment for persistent hoarseness is ineffective, particularly in a patient who is at low risk of malignancy.
Santangeli
L
L
Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, Scotland, UK.
McCluney
N A
NA
Hathorn
I
I
Shakeel
M
M
Anderson
C
C
D018927:Anti-Asthmatic Agents / Q000009:adverse effects; D000967:Antimony Sodium Gluconate / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000981:Antiprotozoal Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D002180:Candidiasis, Oral / Q000175:diagnosis; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D006685:Hoarseness / Q000469:parasitology*; D006801:Humans; D007828:Laryngoscopy; D007896:Leishmaniasis / Q000150:complications* / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D013997:Time Factors; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D018927:Anti-Asthmatic Agents; D000981:Antiprotozoal Agents; D000967:Antimony Sodium Gluconate