(lēsh-mā'nē-ă )

A genus of parasitic, flagellated protozoa that cause a variety of infectious diseases in humans. These tropical organisms are usually transmitted to people by the bite of the female sand flies, although they may occasionally be transferred from person-to-person by transfusion.

L. braziliensis A species that causes American leishmaniasis.

L. donovani A species that causes kala azar (visceral leishmaniasis).

L. major A species that causes skin infections in humans. Infection with L. major is found principally in the Middle East, East Africa, and the Mediterranean.

L. mexicana A group of species found only in the New World. It is a cause of cutaneous leishmaniasis.

L. tropica A species that causes Oriental sore (cutaneous leishmaniasis).