Cutaneous Leishmaniasis Due to <i>Leishmania aethiopica</i>.

Abstract

<i>Leishmania aethiopica</i> is the main causative species for cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) in Ethiopia. Despite its considerable burden, <i>L. aethiopica</i> has been one of the most neglected <i>Leishmania</i> species. In this review, published evidence on <i>L. aethiopica</i> history, geography, vector, reservoir, epidemiology, parasitology, and immunology is discussed and knowledge gaps are outlined. <i>L. aethiopica</i> endemic regions are limited to the highland areas, although nationwide studies on CL prevalence are lacking. <i>Phlebotomus pedifer</i> and <i>P. longipes</i> are the sandfly vectors and hyraxes are considered to be the main reservoir, but the role of other sandfly species and other potential reservoirs requires further investigation. Where and how transmission occurs exactly are also still unknown. Most CL patients in Ethiopia are children and young adults. Lesions are most commonly on the face, in contrast to CL caused by other <i>Leishmania</i> species which may more frequently affect other body parts. CL lesions caused by <i>L. aethiopica</i> seem atypical and more severe in their presentation as compared to other <i>Leishmania</i> species. Mucocutaneous leishmaniasis and diffuse cutaneous leishmaniasis are relatively common, and healing of lesions caused by <i>L. aethiopica</i> seems to take longer than that of other species. A thorough documentation of the natural evolution of <i>L. aethiopica</i> as well as in depth studies into the immunological and parasitological characteristics that underpin the atypical and severe clinical presentation are needed. Better understanding of CL caused by this parasite species will contribute to interventions related to transmission, prevention, and treatment.