Title:
|
Liver morphology and function in Visceral Leishmaniasis (Kala-azar) |
Author:
|
Hashim, Faisal A; Elhassan, Ahmed M.; etal.
|
Abstract:
|
Aim-To study the morphology and function
of the liver in visceral leishmaniasis
(Kala-azar).
Methods-Percutaneous liver biopsy
specimens from 18 patients with confirmed
visceral leishmaniasis were examined
under light and electron microscopy
before and after treatment with pentovalent
antimony. The tissue was also examined
for hepatitis B surface and core
antigens using immunoperoxidase staining.
Liver function was investigated in
nine patients before and after treatment.
Results-Specimens before treatment
showed Kupffer cells and macrophages
colonised by leishmania parasites in 40%
of cases. A chronic mononuclear cell
infiltrate had affected the portal tracts
and lobules. Ballooning degeneration of
the hepatocytes, fibrosis of the terminal
hepatic venules, and pericellular fibrosis
were common findings. The fibrosis was
related to Ito cells transforming to fibroblast-
like cells. None of the patients had
hepatitis B infection. All patients had
biochemical evidence of liver dysfunction
before treatment. Liver function improved
after treatment.
Conclusion-Visceral leishmaniasis causes
morphological and functional disturbance
in the liver. Focal fibrosis rather
than cirrhosis occurs. The exact aetiology
of hepatic damage is unclear but may
have an immunological basis. |
URI:
|
http://khartoumspace.uofk.edu/123456789/17321
|
Date:
|
2015-11-26 |