Abstract
INTRODUCTION:
This study aimed to investigate human exposure to Leishmania spp. infection and sandflies in an area endemic for the disease.
METHODS:
The presence of antibodies specific for Leishmania spp. and saliva of Lutzomyia spp. and that of L. infantum DNA in blood were evaluated.
RESULTS:
Antibodies against Leishmania spp. and sandfly saliva were observed in 20.8% and 37.7% of individuals, respectively. DNA of Leishmania spp. was amplified from the blood of one patient.
CONCLUSIONS:
The results suggest that Leishmania spp. infection may be underdiagnosed in this area.
Keywords:
Antibodies; Humoral immunity; Sandfly saliva; Serology