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Cutaneous leishmaniasis. Treatment with itraconazole
G Albanese1, P Giorgetti, L Santagostino
1Department of Dermatology, S. Gerardo Hospital, Monza, Italy.
Archives of Dermatology
|November 1, 1989
Summary
Itraconazole, an azole antifungal, shows promise for treating leishmaniasis. Two patients with cutaneous leishmaniasis recovered fully after oral itraconazole treatment without adverse effects.
Area of Science:
- Medical Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Current chemotherapy for leishmaniasis remains suboptimal.
- Leishmaniasis is a parasitic disease requiring effective treatment options.
- Azole antifungal agents are a newer class of drugs with potential therapeutic applications.
Observation:
- Two patients presented with cutaneous leishmaniasis caused by Leishmania tropica.
- The patients contracted the infection in Saudi Arabia.
- The patients received oral itraconazole at a dosage of 100 mg daily for two months.
Findings:
- Both patients experienced a complete recovery from leishmaniasis.
- Treatment with itraconazole was well-tolerated.
- No significant side effects or abnormalities in biological parameters were observed during the treatment course.
Implications:
- Itraconazole demonstrates potential as a safe and effective oral treatment for cutaneous leishmaniasis.
- This finding suggests a viable alternative to existing, less satisfactory chemotherapy regimens.
- Further clinical studies are warranted to confirm the efficacy and safety of itraconazole for leishmaniasis.