Incidence of localized cutaneous leishmaniasis (chiclero's ulcer) in Mexico

Cutaneous leishmaniasis in Mexico was first described in 1912. Since then, its existence has been repeatedly confirmed in the forest regions of the peninsula of Yucatan. In order to obtain reliable knowledge about the magnitude of this problem, we questioned and skin-tested a sample of 449 persons randomly selected from men aged 15-45 years. We found a positivity rate of 24 to 90% (mean 43%) in the seven rural health posts studied. Furthermore, 72 patients were examined between January and December 1987 by parasitological investigation (smear, isolation, culture and/or biopsy) and the Montenegro skin test; 56 had acquired the disease in 1987. Based on these data, we found an annual incidence rate of 508 per 100,000 inhabitants. Further long-term studies are indicated to determine the incidence and prevalence rates for this disease in other parts of the country.