The Direct Boil-LAMP method: a simple and rapid diagnostic method for cutaneous leishmaniasis

Area of Science:

• Parasitology
• Molecular Diagnostics
• Dermatology

Background:

• Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) diagnosis typically relies on invasive needle biopsies, posing risks of discomfort, infection, and requiring specialized skills.
• There is a critical need for non-invasive diagnostic methods to improve patient safety and accessibility, especially in resource-limited endemic areas.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a simple, rapid, and non-invasive diagnostic method for cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL).
• To assess the utility of the Direct Boil-LAMP method using swab samples for CL detection in a murine model.

Main Methods:

• Loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) was optimized for direct detection from boiled swab samples.
• The Direct Boil-LAMP method was applied to samples from a murine model of cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL).
• The detection limit of the developed method was determined.

Main Results:

• The Direct Boil-LAMP method successfully detected CL in swab samples from model mice.
• The assay demonstrated a sensitive detection limit of 1.0×10(3) parasites/mL.
• The method is simple, rapid, and suitable for field applications.

Conclusions:

• The Direct Boil-LAMP method offers a viable non-invasive alternative to traditional needle biopsies for CL diagnosis.
• This technique has significant potential for mass screening and diagnosis in CL-endemic regions with limited medical resources.
• Further validation in human subjects is warranted to confirm its clinical utility.