The spleen is severely affected in kala azar.
Kala azar, also known as visceral leishmaniasis, is a serious parasitic disease caused by the protozoan parasite Leishmania donovani. This parasite is transmitted through the bite of infected sandflies.
The spleen is a vital organ responsible for filtering blood and removing old or damaged red blood cells. In kala azar, the parasite infects and replicates within macrophages, which are immune cells that reside in the spleen. This leads to an enlargement of the spleen, a condition known as splenomegaly.
Other organs affected by kala azar:
While the spleen is the most severely affected organ, kala azar can also impact other organs:
- Liver: The liver can become enlarged (hepatomegaly) due to parasite accumulation.
- Bone marrow: The parasite can infect bone marrow cells, leading to anemia and other blood disorders.
- Skin: In some cases, kala azar can cause skin lesions.
- Lungs: Kala azar can affect the lungs, leading to respiratory complications.
Symptoms of Kala Azar:
The symptoms of kala azar can vary depending on the severity of the infection. Some common symptoms include:
- Fever
- Weight loss
- Fatigue
- Splenomegaly
- Hepatomegaly
- Anemia
- Skin lesions
Treatment:
Kala azar is a treatable disease with appropriate medical care. Treatment typically involves medications that target the parasite, such as:
- Sodium stibogluconate
- Amphotericin B
- Miltefosine
Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for a successful outcome.
