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Imported cutaneous leishmaniasis in Thailand
P Viriyavejakul1, C Viravan, M Riganti
1Department of Tropical Pathology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand. tmpvr@mahidol.ac.th
Summary
This study details eleven imported cutaneous leishmaniasis cases, finding ketoconazole effective for treatment. Increased travel and local vectors in Thailand raise concerns for potential primary disease transmission.
Area of Science:
- Medical Parasitology
- Infectious Diseases
- Dermatology
Background:
- Cutaneous leishmaniasis is a parasitic disease transmitted by sandflies.
- Imported cases highlight the risk of disease spread through international travel.
- Thailand's environment may support leishmaniasis vectors, posing a potential transmission risk.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe clinical features and treatment outcomes of imported cutaneous leishmaniasis cases.
- To evaluate the efficacy of ketoconazole in treating cutaneous leishmaniasis.
- To assess the potential for primary leishmaniasis transmission in Thailand.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective case series analysis of eleven imported cutaneous leishmaniasis patients.
- Documentation of patient demographics, travel history, clinical presentation, and treatment regimens.
- Assessment of treatment response and patient outcomes.
Main Results:
- Ketoconazole demonstrated effectiveness in treating imported cutaneous leishmaniasis.
- Clinical features varied among the eleven described cases.
- No primary transmission was documented during the study period, but the risk was noted.
Conclusions:
- Ketoconazole is a viable treatment option for imported cutaneous leishmaniasis.
- Increased travel to endemic areas necessitates vigilance for imported cases.
- Environmental factors in Thailand suggest a potential for local leishmaniasis transmission if vector behavior changes.