Title: Clinico-epidemiological Trends of Cutaneous Leishmaniasis along the Satluj Valley of Himachal Pradesh-A new focus with emerging infection
Authors: Dr Sandhya, Dr Ajeet Negi, Dr Ashok Garg, Dr Kuldeep Thakur, Dr Prem Lal, Dr Ajay Kumar Ahluwalia
DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.18535/jmscr/v5i7.110
Abstract
Background: Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is an endemic disease in well defined regions across the globe. Bihar, Uttar Pradesh (UP) and deserts of Rajasthan are well known foci for CL in India. But recently, subalpine valley along the Satluj River has been identified as a new emerging focus for CL in Himachal Pradesh.
Methods: All newly diagnosed cases of CL were registered and detailed clinico-epidemiological parameters were recorded. Imprint smears for LD bodies and biopsy for histopathology were done in atypical cases to confirm clinical diagnosis. Children less than 18 years, unconfirmed cases and those patients who lost on follow up examination were excluded out from this study.
Results: Out of total 337 registered cases, 222 adults including 121 females and 101 males were enrolled for this study. Most of the cases were affected in the age group of 20-40 years. Face and neck were commonly affected sites in 64.41%. Psoriasiform plaques and nodules were most frequently observed clinical types in 41.44% and 40.09% cases respectively. Most (72%) of the cases had single lesion and duration of lesion ranged between 1-6 months in 81.98% cases. All cases were treated effectively with intralesional injection of sodium stibogluconate (I/L SSG). Most cases recovered completely after 2nd cycle of I/L SSG, only 2(0.9%) patients took 5 months for complete recovery. Immediate side effects like pain, swelling and bleeding were observed almost in every patient while post inflammatory hyper pigmentation, scarring and millia formation were observed as long term side effects.
Conclusion: CL is still emerging and spreading along Satluj valley of Himachal Pradesh (HP). We recommend skillful diagnosis, availability of diagnostic tests, annual record keeping and reporting in this institute. So that exact disease burden can be identified to promote the effective treatment and preventive measures in coming future.
Keywords: Leishmaniasis, Epidemiology, Emerging, Himachal Pradesh (HP).
