[Cutaneous leishmaniasis and its status in Antalya, Turkey]

Leishmaniasis is a group of diseases, in different clinical forms, caused by the intracellular protozoan parasites, Leishmania species. The disease is transmitted by a female sand fly infected with the parasite sucking blood from people. Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is the most common form of the disease. The aim of this study is to examine the status of CL in the Antalya province and contribute to the prevention of the disease in this region.

The data of CL cases officially notified in the province between 2005 and 2012 were provided by the Basic Health Statistics Module of Ministry of Health. The cases were evaluated according to months, seasons, years, age groups, gender, and locations.

Between 2005 and 2012, 220 CL cases were reported officially. Out of 220 cases, 129 (58.64%) and 91 (41.36%) were male and female, respectively. One hundred and eighteen (53.64%) of the cases were in individuals under 20 years old. The highest rate of cases was determined in May (33 cases, 15%) and also during spring (75 cases, 34.09%), while the lowest rate was obtained in July (11 cases, 5%) and also during summer (46 cases, 20.91%). It was determined that CL cases were generally reported from suburbs and villages of districts of the Antalya province.

The number of cases has decreased in Antalya in recent years. However, the climate, nature, vegetation cover, socio-economic structure, population mobility and continuous notification of the cases from the certain areas of the province are considered significant risk factors. Therefore, health screenings, public health education and vector control applications should be regularly performed by sectorial cooperation throughout the year.