Early surgical treatment of cutaneous leishmaniasis

Cutaneous leishmaniasis, treated or untreated, is known to leave disfiguring scars. These scars are usually on exposed parts, for which plastic surgery may be required. The present work deals with the treatment of cutaneous leishmaniasis using surgical techniques from the onset. In 20 patients, 35 lesions were excised down to the deep fascia. To cover the resulting defect, subcuticular sutures were used in 7 small lesions. Dufourmental (LLL flap) and Limberg flaps were used in 23 lesions of moderate size. Free grafting was resorted to in five large lesions. Using these techniques, morbidity was reduced and cosmetic results were satisfactory.