Late diagnosis of mucocutaneous leishmaniasis with oral and oropharyngeal manifestations: Case report

Abstract

The objective of this work was to present a clinical case with a late diagnosis of mucocutaneous leishmaniasis involving oral mucosal manifestations, in order to assist healthcare professionals, especially dentists, in diagnosis and to contribute to the proper management of these patients. The report describes a 72-year-old female patient who presented with ulcerative lesions and abnormal growths on the oral mucosa and oropharynx. After evaluations by dentists and an otolaryngologist, and ineffective antifungal treatment, a biopsy was performed confirming mucocutaneous leishmaniasis. The delay in diagnosis and lack of integration among specialties contributed to the worsening of the clinical condition, resulting in the patient’s death before the initiation of specific treatment. The lack of integration and communication among medical specialties leads to delays that can result in poorer prognoses for the patient. Strategies that integrate interdisciplinary clinical knowledge and make proper use of complementary exams are essential to avoid negative outcomes.