Epidemiology of neglected tropical diseases with cutaneous manifestations (NTD-CM) at the CHU of Treichville, Côte d’Ivoire

Context:

Despite efforts to combat them, neglected tropical diseases with skin manifestations (NTD-CM) are still present, and the related information is fragmented, especially in urban areas of Côte d’Ivoire. Objective: To describe the different NTD-CM observed in the dermatology department of the CHU of Treichville. Materials and Methods: This retrospective, cross-sectional, and descriptive study was conducted in the dermatology and venereology department of the CHU of Treichville in Côte d’Ivoire. The study covered a 5-year period, from January 1, 2018, to December 31, 2022. All patients, regardless of age or sex, who were seen or hospitalized with a clinically and/or paraclinically confirmed neglected tropical disease with skin involvement were included. Results: NTD-CM represented 4.16% of dermatoses, with scabies being the most common (97.2%), followed by leprosy (1.1%), Buruli ulcer (1%), mycetoma (0.4%), basidiobolomycosis (0.3%), and mucormycosis (0.1%). Scabies was more prevalent in women, with a sex ratio (M/F) of 1.14, and the most affected age group was 2–17 years (23.5%). Leprosy predominated in males, with a sex ratio (M/F) of 3.4, and the lepromatous form was the most frequent (77.3%). Buruli ulcer was more common in male patients, with a sex ratio (M/F) of 2, and the most common complication was squamous cell carcinoma (50%). Mycetoma occurred predominantly in men (77.8%), with the foot being the most affected location (66.7%). Basidiobolomycosis showed an equal sex distribution, with the 2–17-year age group being the most represented (50%). One case of mucormycosis was diagnosed in a 12-year-old. Conclusion: NTD-CM are rare in urban areas (4.16% of dermatoses), but their impact on disadvantaged populations, especially children and youth, is significant. Increased awareness, improved hygiene, and investment in control measures are necessary to achieve the 2030 sustainable development goals.