Definition

A disease caused by tiny organisms called protozoans, which are spread by the bites of certain sand flies. It can lead to various health issues, including skin ulcers and fever.

Example

Leishmaniasis is a serious health concern in some tropical regions where sand flies are common.

Conversation

Have you heard about leishmaniasis?

Yeah, I read it can be quite serious if not treated properly.

I had no idea it was caused by sand flies.

Same here! It's alarming how many diseases they can spread.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Leishmaniasis is derived from 'Leishman' (named after Sir William Boog Leishman, a Scottish pathologist who discovered the disease) and '-iasis' (from Greek 'iasis', meaning a pathological condition or disease). The term refers to a disease caused by parasites of the genus Leishmania, named after the discoverer of the disease.

Memory Tip

Think of 'Leishman' as the name of the scientist who identified the disease, and '-iasis' indicates a disease condition. This helps you remember that leishmaniasis is a disease named after its discoverer.

Visually Confused Words