Experimental transmission of Leishmania mexicana by Lutzomyia cruciata

ABSTRACT

A rodent strain of Leishmania mexicana was transmitted to man by the bites of two experimentally infected specimens of Lutzomyia cruciata. Some factors infleuncing the transmission of the parasite to mammalian hosts, and the significance of transmission experiments are discussed briefly. Despite the experimental evidence, further evidence is needed before Lu. cruciata can be considered a natural vector of dermal leishmaniasis in British Honduras.(Summary)