The first probable case of platelet transfusion-transmitted visceral leishmaniasis.

Visceral leishmaniasis (VL; kala-azar), a life-threatening infection of the mononuclear phagocytic system, is transmitted by the bite of infected sand flies. Though peripheral parasitaemia is documented for Leishmania spp. causing VL, reports of transfusion-transmitted infections are rare. A case of probable platelet transfusion-acquired VL is reported from India and issues related to transfusion safety in endemic areas are discussed.