title: Isolated laryngeal leishmaniasis in immunocompetent patients: an underdiagnosed disease.
abstract: We describe a case of isolated primary laryngeal leishmaniasis in an immunocompetent Italian patient with a previous medical history negative for visceral or cutaneous leishmaniasis, presenting with hoarseness. We also summarize the epidemiological, clinical, and diagnostic features and the therapeutic management of other cases of laryngeal leishmaniasis in immunocompetent subjects, described in the literature. Considering the insidious and nonspecific clinical presentation, the increasing number of different forms of mild or underestimated immunosuppressive conditions, and the number of people travelling in endemic zones, along with the ability of Leishmania amastigotes to survive for a long period in the body, we believe it is important for pathologists and clinicians to be aware of this unusual form of leishmaniasis in order to avoid delayed recognition and treatment. The rarity of the presentation and the lack of guidelines on mucosal leishmaniasis may contribute to the potential undiagnosed cases or delayed diagnosis, the possible relapses, as well as the correct pharmacological and/or surgical therapeutic approach.
authors: Department of Medical-Surgical Specialties, A.O.U. Policlinico-Vittorio Emanuele, University of Catania, 95100 Catania, Italy.
authors: Salvatore
authors: S
authors: Cocuzza
authors: Alessio
authors: A
authors: Strazzulla
authors: Marilia Rita
authors: MR
authors: Pinzone
authors: Stefano
authors: S
authors: Cosentino
authors: Agostino
authors: A
authors: Serra
authors: Rosario
authors: R
authors: Caltabiano
authors: Salvatore
authors: S
authors: Lanzafame
authors: Bruno
authors: B
authors: Cacopardo
authors: Giuseppe
authors: G
authors: Nunnari
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