Leishmaniose visceral - revisão de literatutra.

Abstract

Visceral leishmaniasis - literature review. Canine visceral leishmaniasis is a chronic infectious disease, considered a major zoonosis worldwide, potentially fatal for humans and dogs, which are considered the main reservoir of infection for humans. It is caused by an intracellular protozoan of the genus Leishmania, and Leishmania chagasi species found in Brazil. Cosmopolitan distribution, is endemic in more than 70 countries worldwide, being appointed as reemerging disease, characterized by a clear process of epidemiological transition. It is manifested by a wide spectrum of clinical signs and there is sufficient scientific consensus on the management of this disease. In recent years, scientific breakthroughs have been made in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of leishmaniasis. Control strategies are still weak and are focused on diagnosis, reducing the population of sandflies, reservoirs and elimination of health education activities. Given the epidemiological characteristics, over the years the application, often only partially provided these actions do not reduce the incidence of VL in the country.