Leishmaniasis recidivans treated with sodium stibogluconate.

Area of Science:

• Medical Parasitology
• Dermatology
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Leishmaniasis recidivans is a chronic form of leishmaniasis characterized by persistent or relapsing skin lesions.
• Treatment options for leishmaniasis recidivans are often limited, with varying efficacy and potential side effects.

Observation:

• Two patients with leishmaniasis recidivans, each lasting twenty years, were administered intravenous sodium stibogluconate (Pentostam).
• Histologic examination of biopsy specimens before treatment confirmed the presence of numerous Leishman-Donovan (LD) bodies.

Findings:

• Intravenous sodium stibogluconate administration resulted in good therapeutic outcomes for both patients.
• In one patient, repeated biopsies after treatment revealed only scar tissue, suggesting complete resolution of the parasitic infection.

Implications:

• Sodium stibogluconate is a recommended treatment for leishmaniasis recidivans, offering a viable therapeutic option.
• Despite positive results, the search for an ideal and universally effective treatment for leishmaniasis recidivans continues.