Journal of Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology
Open Access

Abstract

Ocular Leishmaniasis Presenting as Chronic Ulcerative Blepharoconjunctivitis: A Case Report

Fisseha Admassu Ayele, Yared Assefa Wolde, Tesfalem Hagos and Ermias Diro

Leishmaniasis is caused by unicellular eukaryotic obligate intracellular protozoa of the genus Leishmania that is endemic in over 98 countries in the world-most of which are developing countries including Ethiopia. It is transmitted by phlebotomine sandflies. The eye may be affected in cutaneous, mucocutaneous and Post Kala-Azar Dermal Leishmaniasis. We report a case of ocular leishmaniasis with eyelid and conjunctival involvement that had simulated ulcerative blepharoconjunctivitis not responding to conventional antibiotics. The patient was diagnosed by microscopy of a sample obtained via direct smear from the lesions. He was treated with systemic sodium stibogluconate (20 mg/kg/day) for 45 days and was clinically cured with this treatment.