Cutane leishmaniasis bij een Syrische vluchteling

Background

Cutaneous leishmaniasis is rare in the Netherlands, but it is endemic to Syria. The disease can manifest itself many years after initial exposure. Given the arrival of Syrian refugees in the Netherlands, awareness of this disease entity is warranted.

Case description

A 5-year-old boy from Syria had investigations for hepatosplenomegaly. As an incidental finding a solitary, moderately demarcated, erythematous plaque was noted on his right cheek. It measured 4 × 2 cm and had a central haemorrhagic, exudative, honey-yellow slough. Due to the hepatosplenomegaly, as well as cutaneous leishmaniasis we also included its visceral form in the differential diagnosis. Additional investigations confirmed the diagnosis of cutaneous leishmaniasis.

Conclusion

Given the rising incidence of leishmaniasis in Syria, the diagnosis of cutaneous leishmaniasis should be considered in a Syrian refugee who has an ulcerating nodule or plaque. A timely local treatment may improve long-term cosmetic outcome.

Conflict of interest and financial support: none declared.