Visceral leishmaniasis and malnutrition: immunological, clinical epidemiological interactions

The book addresses the relationship between visceral leishmaniasis and malnutrition as an important public health problem, especially in socially vulnerable populations. The book presents the pathophysiology of visceral leishmaniasis, its diagnostic methods and the association between infection and the host's nutritional status. It also discusses malnutrition in its different forms, its classification, epidemiology and impacts on innate and adaptive immunity. Throughout the chapters, it becomes clear that malnutrition compromises the immune response, increases susceptibility to infections and can worsen the clinical evolution of leishmaniasis, contributing to greater morbidity and mortality. The book also analyzes this interaction in humans and animal models, highlighting the role of social determinants, poverty and nutritional deficiencies in maintaining this cycle of infection, immunosuppression and clinical worsening.

Pagina's: 60, Paperback, Our Knowledge Publishing