Abstract ID: 26-245
A Rare Periocular Leishmania donovani Mimicking Dacryocystitis and Cellulitis
Author: Sophie Prod’hom Base Hospital / Institution: Geneva University Hospital
Presentation Type: ePoster Presentation
Purpose
We present a rare case of a woman presenting periocular cutaneous L. donovani that mimics dacryocystitis or cellulitis, delaying diagnosis.
Methods
A 42-year-old woman presented with recurrent swelling at the left medial canthus months after excision of a presumed xanthelasma. The lesion initially suggested dacryocystitis, but irrigation and dacryo-CT demonstrated a patent nasolacrimal system, and inflammation progressed despite topical corticosteroids and multiple antibiotic courses. Contrast-enhanced CT showed marked preseptal inflammation without postseptal involvement, consistent with isolated preseptal cellulitis.
Results
Skin biopsy revealed granulomatous inflammation with numerous intrahistiocytic amastigotes highlighted by Giemsa and PAS stains. PCR identified Leishmania donovani, a species classically associated with visceral leishmaniasis rather than cutaneous disease. The patient was treated with liposomal amphotericin B, resulting in gradual improvement.
Conclusion
Periocular cutaneous L. donovani is exceedingly rare and may mimic dacryocystitis or cellulitis, delaying diagnosis.
Additional Authors
| First name | Last name | Base Hospital / Institution |
|---|---|---|
| Victor | Codina | Geneva University Hospital |
| Christopher | Van Issum | Geneva University Hospital |