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Cutaneous leishmaniasis in refugees from Syria: complex cases in Berlin 2015-2020
Andreas K Lindner1, Joachim Richter1, Maximilian Gertler1
1Institute of Tropical Medicine and International Health, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353 Berlin, Germany.
Syrian refugees treated for cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) in Germany often had severe, complex lesions due to conflict-related factors. Many required extensive treatment, highlighting the need for better care for displaced populations with CL.
Area of Science:
- Tropical medicine
- Dermatology
- Public health
Background:
- The Syrian conflict has exacerbated Old World cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) due to population displacement and disrupted health services.
- Factors like poor living conditions and sanitation contribute to CL spread among displaced populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the clinical presentation and treatment outcomes of Syrian refugees with CL treated in Germany.
- To understand the impact of conflict and migration on CL severity and management.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective study of Syrian refugees treated for CL between January 2015 and March 2020.
- Review of patient records at the Institute of Tropical Medicine and International Health in Berlin.
Main Results:
- Twenty Syrian refugees with CL were treated, with 85% presenting complex lesions often due to prior treatment failure or facial involvement.
- Long disease duration (over 1 year in 50%), facial scarring, and recurrences were common.
- Complete remission was achieved in 63% of patients treated with perilesional antimony; 40% required systemic treatment, with 20% needing repeated courses.
Conclusions:
- Syrian refugees with CL frequently exhibit severe disease requiring intensive and prolonged treatment.
- Socioeconomic and environmental factors linked to the Syrian conflict and migration contribute to complex CL presentations.
- Increased attention and tailored management strategies are crucial for Syrian refugees with CL in host countries.
