Review of Leishmaniasis: A Deep Dive into Parasite Biology, Clinical Manifestations, and Future Prospects for Treatment and Vaccines

Abstract

The protozoan parasites from the Leishmania genus cause Leishmaniasis which continues to affect many regions because of its multiple clinical presentations along with difficult epidemiology patterns and insufficient treatment methods. Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) stands as the most dangerous form of this disease but cutaneous lesions (CL) represent less severe cases while all forms of leishmaniasis are influenced by Leishmania species and host immunity and HIV coinfections. The combination of shifting medical statistics because of climate change and human population shifts and social economic conditions is worsen global health problems particularly within areas where the disease is endemic. The complete relationship between Leishmania parasites and their host defense mechanisms alongside mechanisms of immune escape and prolonged infection is essential to study disease development and future therapeutic methods. The current best treatment of liposomal amphotericin B works well yet its effectiveness is hampered by drug resistance alongside toxicity and limited supply issues. Accomplished understanding of parasite virulence elements together with new combination chemotherapy strategies create better prospects for improved medical outcomes. Extensive research has failed to produce an authorized human vaccine for this tropical disease therefore additional research for vaccine development and better diagnostic tools and therapeutic methods becomes essential to control and eliminate it.