Leishmania-related illnesses remain among the world's deadliest
neglected tropical diseases, affecting approximately 12 million people
in 88 countries. The mortality rate is substantial, contributing to
nearly two million disability-adjusted life years. As more is understood
about this parasite and its effects, work toward prevention, control,
and treatment continues apace. Leishmania and Leishmaniasis will
address the parasite and its attendant disease, which manifests in three
syndromes: Visceral (VL), Cutaneous (CL) and Mucocutaneous Leishmaniasis
(ML). The morphology and life cycles of the various species will be
among the topics addressed in Part One. Part Two will focus on
immunology, including host-immune response to Leishmania infection,
cross-immunity between the different species and adoptive transfer of
immunity. Parts Three and Four will address how Leishmania invade and
survive, the clinical features of the disease, and its diagnosis. Drugs,
vaccines and treatment will be thoroughly explored, including
experimental models of therapeutics. Leishmania and Leishmaniasis will
provide a thorough examination of a parasite, the illnesses it causes
and the misery it continues to visit upon large segments of the
population.