In the history of leishmaniasis, several
methods were used for classification, characterization and
identification of the infecting parasites. The conventional
methods of clinical diagnosis of CL have ranged from
clinical picture and epidemiological data, visualizing the
amastigotes by microscopy of stained smears from skin touch
specimens or biopsies to in-vitro culturing of the parasite.
These conventional methods are, however, limited in
sensitivity, need an experienced hand and do not distinguish
between Leishmaniaspecies which differ in virulence and,
subsequently, may require different therapeutic regimes and
control measures. For all this and over the last decade
diagnostic tests based on molecular biology techniques i. e
PCR, were introduced and proved to be more sensitive and
specific. PCR protocols were given priority over
conventional methods, although few of these studies gave
conflicting results. These discrepancies are due to factors
like the different gold standards being used to define a
case of CL and sampling methods.