Cutaneous Leishmaniasis in a Boy from Belize

A 9-year-old boy from Belize presented with a 3-month history of enlarging plaques on his arm. Originating as papules, the lesions had progressed despite treatment with topical mupirocin, oral amoxicillin, and cephalexin. At presentation, physical examination revealed 2 well-circumscribed, round plaques with rolled borders and central erosion on the right forearm (Figure  1). A previous biopsy demonstrated amastigotes within histiocytes, consistent with a diagnosis of cutaneous leishmaniasis. Repeat biopsy sent for polymerase chain reaction, conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), confirmed infection by Leishmania mexicana.
Source: The Journal of Pediatrics - Category: Pediatrics Authors: Tags: Rediscovering the Physical Exam Source Type: research