[Diagnosing visceral Leishmaniasis using the microbiome 16S/18S test]

Abstract

Visceral leishmaniasis in northern parts of Europe is rare and can be difficult to diagnose. The microbiome 16S/18S-test is based on next-generation sequencing (NGS)-technology and a software program able to species annotate most types of bacteria, fungi, and parasites. We present a case of an 86-year-old male born in Denmark with multiple myeloma diagnosed with visceral leishmaniasis via the 16S/18S metabarcode test. This case highlights the potential of the test and the importance of obtaining a thorough travel anamnesis, as immunocompromised patients are susceptible to opportunistic infections.