What Are the Complications of Leishmaniasis?
Leishmaniasis is usually accompanied by serious or life-threatening complications. The cutaneous and visceral types are more likely to result in complications. Complications associated with leishmaniasis:
- Bacterial infections: This is also known as secondary infections. They can worsen ulcers by allowing bacteria to get into the body, which can cause serious disease.
- Scarring: Cutaneous and mucosal leishmaniasis can permanently damage your skin, mouth and nose. They can cause severe scarring.
- Relapse: In some cases, your symptoms may go away after treatment and come back later. Skin ulcers that come back are known as leishmaniasis recidivans. Your doctor may recommend extra treatment if this happens.
- Septal perforation or collapse: Mucosal leishmaniasis can lead to a hole in the tissue between the passages of your nose (septum). The structure of your nose may break down, causing disfigurement, infections and breathing problems.