B55: Leishmaniasis

B55.9: Leishmaniasis, unspecified

The disease occurs in Central and South America, India, the Middle East and East Africa, for example. The disease is caused by parasites that live on various mammals. Parasites are small creatures that, at least for periods of time, live off other creatures. In humans they can cause illnesses. The parasites can be transmitted when you are bitten by a sandfly.

Leishmaniasis can cause changes in the skin. You may also get a fever and your internal organs may be affected.