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Cutaneous leishmaniasis: recent developments in diagnosis and management.
Henry J C de Vries1, Sophia H Reedijk, Henk D F H Schallig
1Department of Dermatology, Academic Medical Center (AMC), University of Amsterdam, P.O. Box 22700, 1100 DE, Amsterdam, The Netherlands, h.j.devries@amc.nl.
American Journal of Clinical Dermatology
|February 18, 2015
Summary
Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is a neglected tropical disease affecting millions globally. Advances in DNA techniques improve parasite identification, guiding more rational treatment choices for this widespread infection.
Area of Science:
- Parasitology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is a neglected tropical disease caused by Leishmania parasites transmitted by sandflies.
- Endemic in over 98 countries, CL affects 12 million people, with 350 million at risk.
- Disease management varies regionally, often relying on local, experience-based evidence.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advancements in the diagnosis, treatment, management, and prevention of cutaneous leishmaniasis.
- To highlight the importance of accurate Leishmania species identification for effective therapeutic strategies.
- To identify gaps in current treatment guidelines and advocate for improved research and control measures.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent developments in CL diagnosis, treatment, and control.
- Analysis of the impact of new DNA-based techniques on parasite identification.
- Evaluation of current treatment guidelines and research needs.
Main Results:
- New DNA techniques facilitate easier and more accurate identification of Leishmania species, crucial for treatment selection.
- Treatment efficacy varies by species and geographic region, necessitating species-specific approaches.
- Current CL treatment guidelines lack robust evidence due to poorly designed trials.
Conclusions:
- Accurate Leishmania species identification is critical for rational CL therapy and improved clinical outcomes.
- There is an urgent need for large, well-conducted clinical trials and standardized treatment protocols.
- Intensified research in vector control, diagnostics, and therapeutics is essential to combat CL incidence and morbidity.
