🔍 What is the Leishmania Antibody Test?
The Leishmania Antibody Test detects antibodies against Leishmania parasites in the blood. These parasites are transmitted through the bite of infected sandflies and cause leishmaniasis, which can affect the skin, mucous membranes, or internal organs (visceral leishmaniasis, also known as kala-azar).
🎯 Purpose of the Test
Diagnose visceral leishmaniasis (kala-azar)
Detect past or current exposure to Leishmania parasites
Differentiate leishmaniasis from other febrile illnesses
Support epidemiological studies in endemic areas
📊 Normal Ranges & Result Interpretation (May vary by lab method)
✅ Negative: No detectable antibodies → No prior or active infection
⚠️ Equivocal: Borderline result, requires further testing
🔺 Positive: IgG antibodies detected → Suggests past or active leishmaniasis infection
⚠️ Conditions Associated with Positive Antibody Results
Visceral Leishmaniasis (Kala-Azar) (Severe, affects organs like liver & spleen)
Cutaneous Leishmaniasis (Skin sores & ulcers)
Mucocutaneous Leishmaniasis (Affects nose, throat, mouth tissues)
Past exposure or previous infection
📝 Additional Testing May Include:
Leishmania Direct Agglutination Test (DAT) (for antibody confirmation)
PCR Test (to detect parasite DNA in blood or tissue)
Skin or Bone Marrow Biopsy (for microscopic examination)
👩‍⚕️ When Should You Get Tested?
Prolonged fever, weight loss, fatigue
Enlarged spleen or liver (Visceral Leishmaniasis)
Skin ulcers or sores (Cutaneous Leishmaniasis)
Travel history to endemic areas (South Asia, Africa, Latin America, Mediterranean)