Visceral Leishmaniasis | Pathogenesis, LD Bodies & Important Mimics

Description: Visceral leishmaniasis, or kala-azar, can closely resemble several infectious and hematological disorders. In this video, we simplify the pathogenesis of Leishmania donovani, from transmission by the sandfly to survival inside macrophages and dissemination through the reticuloendothelial system. We also cover the classic Leishman-Donovan (LD) bodies, their morphological appearance, and how to recognize the nucleus and kinetoplast on microscopy. Most importantly, we discuss the major mimics and differentials, including histoplasmosis, malaria, lymphoma, tuberculosis, brucellosis, typhoid fever, HIV-associated infections, and other causes of fever with hepatosplenomegaly. A useful review for hematology, pathology, microbiology, FCPS, IMM, postgraduate exams, and anyone wanting to understand visceral leishmaniasis in a simple clinical-morphological way. #VisceralLeishmaniasis #KalaAzar #Leishmania #LeishmaniaDonovani #LDBodies #Hematology #Pathology #Histoplasmosis #MedicalEducation #HemeWise