Lipid peroxidation of erythrocytes in visceral leishmaniasis.

Lipid peroxidation of erythrocytes was studied in kala-azar patients having a considerable degree of anemia. Enhanced formation of oxidative metabolic products was observed in the erythrocytes of these patients. Decreased activities of the protective enzymes suggest impairment of the defense mechanism against peroxidative threat. These may contribute to some extent to the shortened lifespan of red cells in visceral leishmaniasis.