Question 1

What is Post Kala-azar Dermal Leishmaniasis (PKDL)?

Accepted Answer

Post Kala-azar Dermal Leishmaniasis (PKDL) is a chronic skin condition that develops months to years after treatment for visceral leishmaniasis (kala-azar), presenting as skin lesions, rash, or nodules. It is caused by persistent or recurring Leishmania parasites that remain in the body after initial treatment. The Leishmania Antibody (IgG) test is the most important blood test for confirming parasitic involvement and monitoring ongoing infection.

Question 2

What causes PKDL?

Accepted Answer

PKDL is caused by Leishmania parasites that persist in the body after treatment for visceral leishmaniasis (kala-azar). These parasites, primarily Leishmania donovani, survive in the skin even after the internal infection is treated, leading to skin lesions that can appear months or even years later. The condition occurs when the immune system cannot fully eliminate the parasites, allowing them to resurface and cause skin manifestations ranging from small patches to widespread nodules.

Question 3

What is the best test for PKDL?

Accepted Answer

The Leishmania Antibody (IgG) test is the most important blood test for PKDL because it detects persistent antibodies against Leishmania parasites in your blood. This test helps confirm whether your skin lesions are related to ongoing parasitic activity from a previous kala-azar infection. Elevated IgG antibody levels indicate that your immune system is still responding to the parasite, which is crucial for determining the right treatment approach. While doctors primarily diagnose PKDL by examining your skin and reviewing your medical history, this blood test provides essential confirmation of the parasitic cause and helps monitor whether the infection is still active.

Question 4

When should I get tested for PKDL?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you develop new skin rashes, lesions, or nodules after being treated for visceral leishmaniasis, especially if these appear months or years after treatment. Testing is particularly important if you notice patches of lighter or darker skin, raised bumps on your face or body, or skin changes that do not respond to regular skin treatments. Anyone with a history of kala-azar who experiences unexplained skin problems should consider testing to rule out PKDL and ensure proper treatment.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of PKDL?

Accepted Answer

PKDL symptoms include skin lesions that can appear as flat patches, raised papules, or nodules on the face, arms, trunk, and legs. You might notice areas of skin discoloration that are lighter or darker than surrounding skin, small bumps that gradually increase in size, or widespread rash-like patches. The lesions typically do not hurt or itch, which distinguishes them from many other skin conditions. In severe cases, the nodules can become widespread and affect large areas of the body, particularly the face.

Question 6

Who is at risk for PKDL?

Accepted Answer

People who have been treated for visceral leishmaniasis (kala-azar) are at the highest risk for developing PKDL. The condition is most common in regions where leishmaniasis is endemic, particularly in East Africa and the Indian subcontinent. Risk factors include incomplete treatment of the original kala-azar infection, weakened immune system, and living in areas with sandfly populations that transmit the Leishmania parasite. PKDL can develop in 5-15% of people who have been treated for visceral leishmaniasis.

Question 7

What happens if PKDL is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated PKDL can lead to progressive skin lesions that spread and become more severe over time, potentially affecting large areas of the body and causing significant cosmetic concerns. The persistent skin lesions can become a reservoir for Leishmania parasites, making you a source of transmission to others through sandfly bites. Long-term untreated PKDL can result in permanent skin changes and scarring. Additionally, people with untreated PKDL serve as ongoing hosts for the parasite, contributing to the spread of leishmaniasis in the community.

Question 8

Can PKDL be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

PKDL can be confirmed with the Leishmania Antibody (IgG) blood test, which detects antibodies against the parasite in your bloodstream. While doctors primarily diagnose PKDL through clinical examination of skin lesions and your history of previous kala-azar treatment, blood testing provides important supporting evidence of parasitic involvement. The test helps distinguish PKDL from other skin conditions and can monitor whether treatment is working by tracking antibody levels over time.

Question 9

How is PKDL treated?

Accepted Answer

PKDL is treated with antiparasitic medications, with the specific drug and duration depending on the severity of your condition and geographic region. Common treatments include miltefosine taken orally for several weeks, or amphotericin B given intravenously in more severe cases. In some regions, liposomal amphotericin B is used due to its effectiveness and lower toxicity. Treatment typically lasts several months and requires close medical supervision to ensure the parasites are eliminated. Blood testing can help monitor treatment response by tracking antibody levels.

Question 10

How can I prevent PKDL?

Accepted Answer

The best prevention for PKDL is ensuring complete and adequate treatment of visceral leishmaniasis if you are diagnosed with kala-azar. Following your full treatment course and attending follow-up appointments helps reduce the risk of parasites persisting in your body. If you live in or travel to areas where leishmaniasis is common, protect yourself from sandfly bites by using insect repellent, wearing long sleeves and pants, and sleeping under insecticide-treated bed nets. Early detection and treatment of visceral leishmaniasis significantly reduces the chance of developing PKDL later.

Question 11

What can I do at home for PKDL?

Accepted Answer

While PKDL requires medical treatment with antiparasitic drugs, you can support your recovery at home by maintaining good skin hygiene and protecting affected areas from sun exposure, which can worsen skin discoloration. Eating a nutritious diet rich in vitamins and minerals helps support your immune system during treatment. Avoid scratching or irritating the lesions to prevent secondary infections. Keep all follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider and report any new skin changes or worsening symptoms promptly. Continue protecting yourself from sandfly bites even after treatment to prevent reinfection.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
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Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
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Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
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Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
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            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
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Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
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Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
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PKDL Skin Rash Blood Test

What is Post Kala-azar Dermal Leishmaniasis (PKDL)?

What causes PKDL?

What is the best test for PKDL?

When should I get tested for PKDL?

References

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