Visceral Leishmaniasis and Arsenic: An Ancient Poison Contributing to Antimonial Treatment Failure in the Indian Subcontinent (original) (raw)

2011, PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases

AI-generated Abstract

This viewpoint article posits that chronic exposure to arsenic in Bihar, India, may contribute to the observed decline in efficacy of antimonial compounds for treating visceral leishmaniasis. Historical data indicate a significant link between arsenic contamination and the development of antimonial resistance in local Leishmania strains. Through an integration of biochemical, epidemiological, and clinical research, the authors aim to establish a clearer understanding of how arsenic exposure affects treatment outcomes in Bihar, advocating for a reevaluation of first-line treatment strategies in light of these findings.