Cutaneous Leishmaniasis in Saudi Arabia: A Comprehensive Overview

Area of Science:

• Medical Entomology
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is a persistent public health concern in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA).
• Risk factors such as rapid urbanization and population migration contribute to CL outbreaks and epidemics.
• The disease is endemic in six key regions of KSA, including Riyadh and Al-Madinah.

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize the current status of cutaneous leishmaniasis in KSA.
• To highlight the epidemiological, clinical, and etiological aspects of CL in the region.
• To emphasize the need for improved diagnostic and management strategies.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature and epidemiological data on CL in KSA.
• Identification of causative Leishmania species and their vectors.
• Analysis of clinical presentation, affected demographics, and treatment practices.

Main Results:

• Leishmania major and Leishmania tropica are the primary causative species, transmitted by Phlebotomus papatasi and Phlebotomus sergenti.
• Rodent reservoirs include Psammomys obesus and Meriones libycus.
• Males are more frequently affected, with facial lesions being most common (90% ulcerative). Non-Saudis experience more severe disease courses.
• Diagnosis and treatment are predominantly based on clinical grounds, with systemic parenteral sodium stibogluconate (SSG) as the first-line therapy.

Conclusions:

• Despite control efforts, CL remains a major health problem in KSA.
• Current diagnostic and treatment approaches require enhancement.
• Development of evidence-based national guidelines and further research are crucial for effective CL control.