This review discusses the role of human macrophage polarization in inflammation during infectious diseases, emphasizing the complexity of the M1-like and M2-like continuum. Macrophages play a crucial role in both innate and adaptive immunity, and their polarization can be influenced by various stimuli, including cytokines, growth factors, and pathogen-derived molecules. The M1-like phenotype is characterized by pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines, while the M2-like phenotype is associated with anti-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines. The balance between M1-like and M2-like macrophages is critical for resolving inflammation and maintaining homeostasis. During infections, macrophages can switch between these phenotypes, and pathogens often employ strategies to manipulate macrophage polarization to their advantage. The review highlights the importance of understanding the continuum of macrophage polarization in infectious diseases, particularly in leishmaniasis, and suggests that therapeutic strategies targeting macrophage polarization could be promising.This review discusses the role of human macrophage polarization in inflammation during infectious diseases, emphasizing the complexity of the M1-like and M2-like continuum. Macrophages play a crucial role in both innate and adaptive immunity, and their polarization can be influenced by various stimuli, including cytokines, growth factors, and pathogen-derived molecules. The M1-like phenotype is characterized by pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines, while the M2-like phenotype is associated with anti-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines. The balance between M1-like and M2-like macrophages is critical for resolving inflammation and maintaining homeostasis. During infections, macrophages can switch between these phenotypes, and pathogens often employ strategies to manipulate macrophage polarization to their advantage. The review highlights the importance of understanding the continuum of macrophage polarization in infectious diseases, particularly in leishmaniasis, and suggests that therapeutic strategies targeting macrophage polarization could be promising.