Exposure to Leishmania spp. Infection and Lutzomyia spp. in individuals living in an area endemic for visceral leishmaniasis in Brazil

Abstract

Introduction: This study aimed to investigate human exposure to Leishmania spp. infection and sandflies in an area endemic for the disease. Methods: The presence of antibodies specific for Leishmania spp. and saliva of Lutzomyia spp. and that of L. infantum DNA in blood were evaluated. Results: Antibodies against Leishmania spp. and sandfly saliva were observed in 20.8% and 37.7% of individuals, respectively. DNA of Leishmania spp. was amplified from the blood of one patient. Conclusions: The results suggest that Leishmania spp. infection may be underdiagnosed in this area.