DefinitionLeishmaniasis is a parasitic disease spread by the bite of the sandfly.Alternative NamesKala-azarCauses, incidence, and risk factorsThere are different forms of leishmaniasis.Cutaneous leishmaniasis affects the skin and mucus membranes. Skin sores usually start at the site of the sandfly bite. They can last for months or years before healing on their own. In a few people, sores may develop on mucus membranes.Systemic, or visceral leishmaniasis affects the entire body. This form occurs 2 - 8 months after a person is bitten by the sandfly. Most people do not remember having a skin sore. This form can lead to deadly complications. The parasites damage the immune system by decreasing the numbers of disease-fighting cells.Cases of leishmaniasis have been reported on all continents exc