The First Molecular Characterization of Pediatric Visceral Leishmaniasis in Jordan

Abstract

Leishmaniasis is a neglected endemic, vector-borne tropical disease that poses a substantial public health threat in Jordan, yet data on visceral leishmaniasis, particularly in human cases, remain limited. To our knowledge, this article is the first peer-reviewed report describing the clinical and molecular aspects of the locally acquired pediatric visceral leishmaniasis cases in Jordan. Current literature associated with the disease’s emergence in the region is also reviewed. Three pediatric cases presenting symptoms of visceral leishmaniasis were clinically evaluated. Diagnosis was confirmed according to bone marrow aspirates, cytology, molecular techniques, and sequencing to identify the causative Leishmania species. Two cases were caused by L. infantum, and one case was caused by L. tropica. The sequences of the studied samples showed a high similarity to regional isolates instead of the isolated strains showed close genetic similarity to regional isolates. The identification of autochthonous human visceral leishmaniasis cases in Jordan is a critical public health concern. The emergence of such cases in new geographic areas might strain healthcare services, particularly for vulnerable populations. Improved surveillance, research, and crisis management plans for both human and canine leishmaniasis in Jordan are urgently needed.

Keywords

Jordan / visceral / cutaneous / leishmaniasis / L. infantum / L. tropica / zoonotic

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