Pediatrics & Therapeutics
Open Access
ISSN: 2161-0665
ISSN: 2161-0665
Mariam lagrine
University Hospital Center , Morocco
Posters & Accepted Abstracts: Pediatr Ther
Abstract: Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is a serious parasitic disease, endemic in many regions of Morocco, and has been mandatory to report since 1995. It represents a major public health challenge, with significant morbidity and risks of seasonal epidemics. On average, nearly 150 cases are reported each year. In a descriptive retrospective study conducted on 250 cases of LV collected at the CHU Mohammed VI of Marrakech, whose diagnosis and treatment require particular vigilance, notably because the average age of the patients was 42 months, with a sex ratio of 1.6 in favor of boys. The clinical presentation was dominated by prolonged fever, a symptom reported in 80% of patients. Splenomegaly was present in all patients, an essential clinical sign to guide the diagnosis. The blood count revealed anemia in all cases, as well as neutropenia in 58.33% of the patients. In conclusion, the findings of this study highlight the importance of early diagnosis and treatment of visceral leishmaniasis, particularly in young children, who are the most affected population. The clinical signs, such as prolonged fever and splenomegaly, along with hematological abnormalities like anemia and neutropenia, should serve as key indicators for healthcare providers. Given the endemic nature of the disease in Morocco and its potential for seasonal epidemics, ongoing surveillance and vigilance are critical in managing and reducing the burden of VL in affected regions.
Lagrine Mariam, young Moroccan pediatrician in hepatology, gastrology and nutrition. I worked at the university hospital center Mohammed VI of Marrakesh, Morocco