The use of K39 test in the diagnosis of visceral leishmaniasis

Abstract

From time to time patients admitted with fever of unknown origin prove to be a diagnostic dilemma. While textbooks describe typical symptoms and signs, and also diagnostic tests, these are not always helpful. The following are two case reports of patients who were eventually diagnosed to be suffering from visceral leishmaniasis. It is apparent that the usual diagnostic tools at our disposal were not enough to identify the disease and new tests were needed. The case reports have some similarities; both patients are male, diabetic, resident in Gozo but not of Gozitan stock. These factors could have reduced their immunity to visceral leishmaniasis, making them more susceptible to the disease.