Background
Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) remains one of the most prevalent neglected tropical diseases, imposing a substantial health burden in many developing countries. Given the importance of epidemiological data in guiding public health responses, this retrospective registry-based study aimed to describe and compare the epidemiological, demographic, clinical, and therapeutic characteristics of CL among patients referred to the Cutaneous Leishmaniasis Research Centers in Mashhad, Northeastern Iran, between 2015 and 2024.
Methods
This retrospective case-series included all patients (n = 2031) referred to the CL Research Center bases at Imam Reza Hospital, Ghaem Hospital, and Abo-Bargh Health Center (Mashhad, Iran) with suspected CL during 2015–2024.
Results
Among 1537 confirmed CL cases, children under 10 years accounted for the largest proportion (34.9%). Male patients were slightly more frequent than females (52.3%). The majority had low educational levels (71.6%) and resided in peri-urban areas (59.4%). Almost all cases were localized (99.4%), with lesions predominantly on exposed areas such as the head and neck (47.0%) and upper extremities (38.6%). The most common clinical forms were papulonodular (50.4%), ulcerative (31.0%), and plaque-type lesion (13.7%). Intralesional antimony was the most frequent treatment (59.3%), and approximately 63% of treated patients achieved complete cure. Seasonally, case numbers peaked in autumn, declined in winter, and rose again in spring.
Conclusion
CL remains a major public health concern in Mashhad, Iran. Despite encouraging cure rates, the true disease burden is likely underestimated. Demographic and climatic factors influence its distribution. Longitudinal and clinical studies are warranted to better understand treatment outcomes. Strengthened surveillance, public awareness, and coordinated control programs are crucial for sustainable disease management.
a2405-6731