Clinical and epidemiological aspects of American cutaneous leishmaniasis with genital involvement

Abstract Genital lesions are an unusual presentation of American cutaneous leishmaniasis. Conditions such as disseminated cutaneous leishmaniasis and HIV infection may be associated with genital involvement. The authors present five cases of American cutaneous leishmaniasis with genital lesions and discuss the clinical and epidemiological aspects observed in this case series.

Clinical and epidemiological aspects of American cutaneous leishmaniasis with genital involvement.

Genital lesions are an unusual presentation of American cutaneous leishmaniasis. Conditions such as disseminated cutaneous leishmaniasis and HIV infection may be associated with genital involvement. The authors present five cases of American cutaneous leishmaniasis with genital lesions and discuss the clinical and epidemiological aspects observed in this case series.

Identification of Leishmania species by high-resolution DNA dissociation in cases of American cutaneous leishmaniasis

Abstract Background American cutaneous leishmaniasis is an infectious dermatosis caused by protozoa of the genus Leishmania, which comprises a broad spectrum of clinical manifestations depending on the parasite species involved in the infections and the immunogenetic response of the host. The use of techniques for amplification of the parasites DNA based on polymerase chain reaction polymerase chain reaction and the recent application of combined techniques, such as high-resolution DNA dissociation, have been described as a viable alternative for the detection and identification of Leishmania spp. in biological samples. Objectives To identify the Leishmania species using the polymerase chain reaction high-resolution DNA dissociation technique in skin biopsies of hospital-treated patients, and compare with results obtained by other molecular identification techniques. Methods A retrospective study assessing patients with suspected American cutaneous leishmaniasis seen at a hospital in São Paulo/Brazil was conducted. The paraffin blocks of 22 patients were analyzed by polymerase chain reaction high-resolution DNA dissociation to confirm the diagnosis and identify the species. Results Of the 22 patients with suspected American cutaneous leishmaniasis, the parasite was identified in 14, comprising five cases (35.6%) of infection by L. amazonensis, four (28.5%) by L. braziliensis, two (14.4%) by L. amazonensis + L. infantum chagasi, two (14.4%) by L. guyanensis, and one (7.1%) by Leishmania infantum chagasi. In one of the samples, in which the presence of amastigotes was confirmed on histopathological examination, the polymerase chain reaction high-resolution DNA dissociation technique failed to detect the DNA of the parasite. Study limitations The retrospective nature of the study and small number of patients. Conclusions The method detected and identified Leishmania species in paraffin-embedded skin biopsies with a sensitivity of 96.4% and could be routinely used in the public health system.

Identification of Leishmania species by high-resolution DNA dissociation in cases of American cutaneous leishmaniasis.

BACKGROUND: American cutaneous leishmaniasis is an infectious dermatosis caused by protozoa of the genus Leishmania, which comprises a broad spectrum of clinical manifestations depending on the parasite species involved in the infections and the immunogenetic response of the host. The use of techniques for amplification of the parasites DNA based on polymerase chain reaction polymerase chain reaction and the recent application of combined techniques, such as high-resolution DNA dissociation, have been described as a viable alternative for the detection and identification of Leishmania spp. in biological samples. OBJECTIVES: To identify the Leishmania species using the polymerase chain reaction high-resolution DNA dissociation technique in skin biopsies of hospital-treated patients, and compare with results obtained by other molecular identification techniques. METHODS: A retrospective study assessing patients with suspected American cutaneous leishmaniasis seen at a hospital in São Paulo/Brazil was conducted. The paraffin blocks of 22 patients were analyzed by polymerase chain reaction high-resolution DNA dissociation to confirm the diagnosis and identify the species. RESULTS: Of the 22 patients with suspected American cutaneous leishmaniasis, the parasite was identified in 14, comprising five cases (35.6%) of infection by L. amazonensis, four (28.5%) by L. braziliensis, two (14.4%) by L. amazonensis+L. infantum chagasi, two (14.4%) by L. guyanensis, and one (7.1%) by Leishmania infantum chagasi. In one of the samples, in which the presence of amastigotes was confirmed on histopathological examination, the polymerase chain reaction high-resolution DNA dissociation technique failed to detect the DNA of the parasite. STUDY LIMITATIONS: The retrospective nature of the study and small number of patients. CONCLUSIONS: The method detected and identified Leishmania species in paraffin-embedded skin biopsies with a sensitivity of 96.4% and could be routinely used in the public health system.

Mucosal leishmaniasis: A forgotten disease, description and identification of species in 50 Colombian cases / Leishmaniasis mucosa: una enfermedad olvidada, descripción e identificación de especies en 50 casos colombianos

Abstract Introduction: Mucosal leishmaniasis has a progressive course and can cause deformity and even mutilation in the affected areas. It is endemic in the American continent and it is mainly caused by Leishmania (Viannia) braziliensis. Objective: To describe a series of mucosal leishmaniasis cases and the infectious Leishmania species. Materials and methods: We included 50 patients with a clinical diagnosis of mucosal leishmaniasis and parasitological confirmation, and we described their clinical and laboratory results. We performed species typing by PCR-RFLP using the miniexon sequence and hsp70 genes; confirmation was done by sequencing. Results: The median time of disease evolution was 2.9 years (range: 1 month to 16 years). The relevant clinical findings included mucosal infiltration (94%), cutaneous leishmaniasis scar (74%), total loss of the nasal septum (24%), nasal deformity (22%), and mucosal ulceration (38%). The symptoms reported included nasal obstruction (90%), epistaxis (72%), rhinorrhea (72%), dysphonia (28%), dysphagia (18%), and nasal pruritus (34%). The histopathological study revealed a pattern compatible with leishmaniasis in 86% of the biopsies, and amastigotes were identified in 14% of them. The Montenegro skin test was positive in 86% of patients, immunofluorescence in 84%, and culture in 8%. Leishmania (V.) braziliensis was identified in 88% of the samples, L. (V) panamensis in 8%, and L. (V.) guyanensis and L. (L.) amazonensis in 2% respectively. Conclusion: In this study, we found a severe nasal disease with destruction and deformity of the nasal septum in 25% of the cases, probably associated with late diagnosis. Leishmania (V.) braziliensis was the predominant species. We described a case of mucosal leishmaniasis in Colombia caused by L. (L.) amazonensis for the first time.

Resumen Introducción. La leishmaniasis mucosa tiene un curso progresivo y puede causar deformidad e incluso mutilación de las zonas afectadas. Es endémica en el continente americano y es causada principalmente por Leishmania (Viannia) brasiliensis. Objetivo. Describir una serie de casos de leishmaniasis mucosa y las especies de Leishmania infecciosas. Materiales y métodos. Se estudiaron 50 pacientes con diagnóstico clínico de leishmaniasis mucosa y confirmación parasitológica. Se describieron sus características clínicas y los resultados de laboratorio. La tipificación de especies se hizo mediante reacción en cadena de la polimerasa de los polimorfismos de la longitud de los fragmentos de restricción (Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism Polymerase Chain Reaction, PCR-RFLP) en la secuencia del miniexon y el gen hsp70 y se confirmó por secuenciación. Resultados. La evolución de la enfermedad fue de un mes a dieciséis años (mediana de 2,8 años). Los hallazgos clínicos fueron los siguientes: infiltración mucosa (94 %), cicatriz de leishmaniasis cutánea (74 %), pérdida total del tabique nasal (24 %), deformidad nasal (22 %) y ulceración (38 %). Los síntomas reportados fueron: obstrucción nasal (90 %), epistaxis (72 %), rinorrea (72 %), disfonía (28 %), disfagia (18 %) y prurito nasal (34 %). La histopatología mostró un patrón compatible con leishmaniasis en 86 % de las biopsias y se identificaron amastigotes en 14 % de ellas. La prueba de Montenegro fue positiva en 86 % de los pacientes, la inmunofluorescencia en 84 %, y el cultivo en 8 %. Leishmania (V.) brasiliensis se identificó en 88 % de las muestras, L. (V) panamensis en 8 %, y L. (V.) guyanensis y L. (L.) amazonensis en 2 %, respectivamente. Conclusión. Se encontró enfermedad nasal grave con destrucción y deformidad del tabique nasal en una cuarta parte de los casos, probablemente debido a un diagnóstico tardío. Leishmania (V.) brasiliensis fue la especie predominante. Se describe por primera vez un caso de leishmaniasis mucosa causado por L. (L.) amazonensis en Colombia.

Profile of skin diseases in a community of fishermen in the northern coast of the state of São Paulo: the expected and the unusual

Abstract: Background: The fishing colony of the Picinguaba neighborhood is located at the northern end of the coast of the state of São Paulo. It has about 300 residents, of which approximately 100 are professional fishermen. Objectives: This study aimed to identify the main dermatoses of the community in comparison with other populations, and their frequency. Methods: The dermatoses were identified and tabulated for two years, in a prospective study carried out on monthly trips to the fishermen's colony in Picinguaba. Results: One hundred and eighteen patients were attended and followed up, which is equivalent to about 1/3 of the colony's inhabitants. Of these, 43 were children (under the age of 14) and 75 were adolescents and adults. The diseases observed were catalogued according to the age groups. Although most dermatoses in the community were similar with those observed in the general population, some specific cases could be seen, such as folliculitis on the legs of fishermen and an unexpected low frequency of actinic lesions in the colony, as well as dermatitis by aquatic animals. Study Limitations: The limitations were monthly attendance and the spontaneous demand of the patients. Conclusions: The finding of community-specific dermatoses and the low incidence of malignant and pre-malignant tumors associated with sun exposure needs further studies for better clarification.

Diagnóstico diferencial de leishmaniasis mucocutánea. A propósito de un caso de carcinoma basocelular de la piel / Differential diagnosis of mucocutaneous leishmaniasis. Report of a clinical case of basocellular carcinoma of the skin

Introducción. La leishmaniasis es una enfermedad parasitaria causada por aproximadamente veinte especies diferentes del protozoario Leishmania sp. y transmitida al hombre por la picadura de un mosquito hembra del género Phlebotomine sp. Las manifestaciones clínicas son variables y están relacionadas con la especie infectante; su relación con el ambiente y con la respuesta inmune del hospedero. La leishmaniasis mucocutánea (LMC), afecta a piel y mucosas de la estructura de vías respiratorias superiores; está presente en Latinoamérica donde es producida principalmente por la especie Leishmania (Vianna) braziliensis. Los signos iniciales son eritema y ulceraciones en los orificios nasales, seguidos por inflamación destructiva que puede extenderse hasta afectar el septo nasal y en algunos casos, la faringe o la laringe, desfigurando gravemente el rostro y comprometiendo la vida del paciente. Caso clínico. Varón de 90 años proveniente del Noroccidente de Pichincha, quien presenta varias lesiones ulcerativas localizadas en el puente nasal derecho, ángulo interno del ojo derecho y mejilla homolateral cubriendo un área aproximada de 4 cm. de diámetro. Inicialmente se sospechó de LMC y se aplicaron varias dosis de antimonio pentavalente (Glucantime©). Se realizaron exámenes diagnósticos para Leishmaniasis (frotis, cultivo y PCR) los cuales resultaron negativos. Resultados. La muestra de biopsia de piel determinó lesión compatible con carcinoma basocelular refiriéndose al paciente a SOLCA. Discusión. Existen algunos diagnósticos diferenciales de la LMC en zonas endémicas, siendo el carcinoma de piel uno de los cuales los médicos y laboratoristas deberían tener en cuental al momento del diagnóstico. Además deben confirmarse los diagnósticos de LMC con exámenes de laboratorio para evitar el mal uso de antimoniales. Conclusiones. En zonas endémicas de LMC, se debe realizar un adecuado diagnóstico diferencial de otras patologías que causan lesiones ulcerativas como este tipo de carcinoma basocelular de piel, evitando la administración de antimonio pentavalente de manera indiscriminada.

Introduction. Leishmaniasis is a parasitic disease caused about twenty differents species of the Leishmania protozoo.Transmitted to humans by the bite of a female midge of the genus Phlebotomine sp. The clinical manifestations are variable and are related to the infected species, their relationship with the environment and the host immune response. Mucocutaneous leishmaniasis (MCL), affect the skin and mucous membranes of the upper respiratory tract, is present in Latin America, produced mainly by Leishmania (Vianna) braziliensis. The initial signs first signs are erythema and ulcerations in the nostrils, followed by destructive inflammation that can spread to involve the nasal septum, in some cases, pharynx or larynx, severely disfiguring the face and compromise the patient's life. Clinical case. A 90 year old male from the Northwest of Pichincha province, who has several ulcerative lesions in the right nasal bridge, inner corner of the right eye and ipsilateral cheek covering an area of approximately 4 cm in diameter is presented. Multiple doses of pentavalent antimony (Glucantime©) were applied because it was suspected MCL. Diagnostic tests for Leishmaniasis (smear, culture and PCR) were negative. Histopathological examination determined that it was a basal cell skin carcinoma. Results. The skin biopsy sample determined a lesion with basal cell carcinoma, we have referred the patient to SOLCA. Discussion. There are some differential diagnoses of MCL in endemic areas, skin carcinoma being one of which doctors and laboratory technicians should take into account at the time of diagnosis. In addition, MCL diagnoses should be confirmed with laboratory tests to avoid misuse of antimonials. Conclusions. In endemic areas of MCL, a proper differential diagnosis must be performed for ulcerative lesions such as basal cell carcinoma of the skin, avoiding the indiscriminately administration of pentavalent antimony.

Manifestaciones oftalmológicas de la leishmaniasis: reporte de un caso / Ophthalmologic manifestations of leishmaniasis: a case report

Fundamento: la leishmaniasis es una enfermedad producida por un protozoo del género leishmanias, que se transmite por la picadura del mosquito del género phlebotomus y una mosca del tipo lutzomyia (mosca de arena o sandfly, en inglés) y puede causar enfermedad de la piel y enfermedad sistémica. Se pueden distinguir tres formas: leishmaniasis visceral, leishmaniasis cutánea y leishmaniasis mucocutánea. La forma sistémica puede ser mortal, pero el tratamiento compuestos que contengan antimonio logra una tasa de curación alta. Objetivo: presentar un caso típico de leishmaniasis que desarrolló alteraciones oftalmológicas no comunes en el mismo. Caso clínico: se recogió el antecedente de haber estado en zona endémica de leishmaniasis antes de la presentación clínica. El cuadro clínico, los antecedentes, los exámenes de laboratorio y los cultivos de piel, confirmaron la presencia de una leishmaniasis. Conclusiones: las leishmaniasis son un conjunto de enfermedades de manifestaciones diversas, pero todas ellas tienen efectos devastadores, por ello siempre se debe tener presente esta enfermedad en el diagnóstico diferencial sobre todo en zonas endémicas.

Background: leishmaniasis is a disease caused by protozoan of the genus leishmanias, transmitted by the bite of the sand fly of the genus phlebotomus and a sand fly of genus Lutzomyia(mosca de arena en español). It can cause skin disease and systemic disease. Three forms can be distinguished clinically: visceral leishmaniasis, cutaneous leishmaniasis, and mucocutaneous leishmaniasis. Systemic form can be deadly, but treatments that contain antimony achieve a high percent of recovery. Objective: to present a typical case of leishmaniasis that developed uncommon ophthalmic alterations in the disease. Clinical case: it was found out that the person had been in an endemic area of leishmaniasis before having the clinical symptoms. Clinical manifestation, backgrounds, laboratory tests and skin culture confirmed the presence of leishmaniasis. Conclusions: leishmaniasis are a group of diseases of diverse manifestations, however all of them have potentially devastating effects. Consequently, this disease should be always taken into account in differential diagnosis, mainly in endemic areas.

Leishamniose tegumentar americana: um desafio diagnóstico na prática pediátrica / Leishamniose american cutaneous: challenging diagnosis in pediatric practice

O objetivo deste artigo foi descrever as particularidades clínicas da leishmaniose tegumentar americana (LTA) e as dificuldades em realizar o diagnóstico dessa doença em Pediatria. Serão relatados três casos clínicos provenientes de serviço de referência no atendimento de doenças infecciosas para o estado de Minas Gerais, de janeiro a março de 2011, com as seguintes formas de manifestação da doença: lesão cutânea localizada e lesão cutânea disseminada. Um dos casos evidencia lesão cicatricial mutiladora. Os três casos relatados revelam a dificuldade do diagnóstico precoce de LTA. Em todos eles os pacientes foram examinados por vários pediatras e receberam tratamento empírico com antibioticoterapia, sem sucesso. Devido ao aumento da incidência da doença próximo dos grandes centros urbanos, é de suma importância que o pediatra se familiarize com os aspectos clínicos e epidemiológicos da leishmaniose para realizar um diagnóstico mais precoce, minimizando as sequelas para o paciente.

The purpose of this article is to describe the clinical characteristics of American Cutaneous Leishmaniasis ( ACL) and the difficulties in making a diagnosis of this disease in pediatrics. Three clinical cases from reference service in the care of infectious diseases in the state of Minas Gerais, January-March 2011, with the following manifestations of the disease are reported: localized cutaneous lesion and skin disseminada. An injury casesshows mutilating scar tissue. The three reported cases show the difficulty of early diagnosis of ATL. In all cases, the patients were examined for various pediatric and received empirical treatment with antibiotics without success. Due to the increased incidence of disease close to large urban centers is of paramount importance that pediatricians become familiar with the clinical and epidemiological aspects of leishmaniasis to make an earlier diagnosis minimizing the consequences for the patient.

Accuracy of mucocutaneous leishmaniasis diagnosis using polymerase chain reaction: systematic literature review and meta-analysis

The diagnosis of mucocutaneous leishmaniasis (MCL) is hampered by the absence of a gold standard. An accurate diagnosis is essential because of the high toxicity of the medications for the disease. This study aimed to assess the ability of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to identify MCL and to compare these results with clinical research recently published by the authors. A systematic literature review based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses: the PRISMA Statement was performed using comprehensive search criteria and communication with the authors. A meta-analysis considering the estimates of the univariate and bivariate models was performed. Specificity near 100% was common among the papers. The primary reason for accuracy differences was sensitivity. The meta-analysis, which was only possible for PCR samples of lesion fragments, revealed a sensitivity of 71% [95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.59; 0.81] and a specificity of 93% (95% CI = 0.83; 0.98) in the bivariate model. The search for measures that could increase the sensitivity of PCR should be encouraged. The quality of the collected material and the optimisation of the amplification of genetic material should be prioritised.

Complementary exams in the diagnosis of american tegumentary leishmaniasis

The diagnosis of American Tegumentary Leishmaniasis is a difficult but essential task when considering the high toxicity profile of the drugs available. Since the discovery of its etiologic agent, numerous diagnostic tests have been developed. None of the tests available today can be considered as the gold standard, since they do not add enough accuracy for the disease detection. Good epidemiological and clinical knowledge of the disease are fundamental precepts of the dermatology practice and precede the rational use of existing diagnostic tests. In this article we aim, through extensive literature review, to recall fundamental concepts of any diagnostic test. Subsequently, based on this information, we will weave important comments about the characteristics of existing diagnostic tests, including immunological tests such as Montenegro's skin test, serology and detection of parasites by direct examination, culture or histopathology. Finally we will discuss the new technologies and options for the diagnosis of Cutaneous Leishmaniasis. The molecular biology technique is considered a promising tool, promoting the rapid identification of the species involved. We also aim to educate dermatologists about a disease with high morbidity and assist in its difficult recognition.

Recurrent cutaneous leishmaniasis / Leishmaniose recidiva cútis

We present a case of an 18-year-old male patient who, after two years of inappropriate treatment for cutaneous leishmaniasis, began to show nodules arising at the edges of the former healing scar. He was immune competent and denied any trauma. The diagnosis of recurrent cutaneous leishmaniasis was made following positive culture of aspirate samples. The patient was treated with N-methylglucamine associated with pentoxifylline for 30 days. Similar cases require special attention mainly because of the challenges imposed by treatment.

Paciente do sexo masculino, 18 anos. Dois anos após tratamento insuficiente para leishmaniose tegumentar americana, apresentou, na mesma localização, lesão formada por cicatriz atrófica central e nódulos verrucosos na periferia. Era imunocompetente, hígido e negava qualquer trauma local. O diagnóstico de leishmaniose recidiva cutis foi feito através de cultura do aspirado da lesão. Realizou tratamento com N-metilglucamina (20mgSbV/kg/dia) associado à pentoxifilina (1200mg/dia) durante 30 dias alcançando cura clínica. Os casos semelhantes requerem atenção diferenciada pela dificuldade ao tratamento.

Aspectos clínicos e epidemiológicos da leishmaniose mucosa no municípiode Belo Horizonte, Brasil / Clinical and epidemiological aspects of the mucosal leishmaniasis in Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil

Introdução: a leishmaniose tegumentar americana afeta 15 milhões de pessoas no mundo. Na forma tegumentar, o parasita Leishmania (Viannia) braziliensis é o seu principal agente, sendo que a forma mucosa ocorre em 3-5% dos pacientes com a forma cutânea da doença. Objetivo: analisar casos notificados de leishmaniose mucosa do município de BeloHorizonte, com enfoque no acompanhamento otorrinolaringológico para controle de cura após tratamento específico. Pacientes e método: estudo analítico do banco de dados da Secretaria Municipal de Saúde de Belo Horizonte referente aos casos notificados entre 2001 e 2008 de leishmaniose tegumentar americana nas formas cutânea e mucosa e avaliação clínica dos casos com a forma mucosa. Resultados: foram notificados 745 pacientes, sendo 539 (72%) com a forma cutânea, 137 (18%) mucosa e 69 (9%) não identificados. Contato foi tentado com os 137 pacientes com a forma mucosa. Contudo, dados incorretos da fichade notificação permitiram contato efetivo com nove (6,6%) pacientes previamente tratados com a forma mucosa. Todos haviam sido tratados com antimoniato de N-metilglucamina há mais de um ano e submetidos a exame otorrinolaringológico. Endoscopia nasal e biópsia confirmaram recidiva em três de nove casos avaliados. Nos três casos, o diagnóstico ocorreu exclusivamente pela busca ativa decorrente deste estudo. Conclusão: em Belo Horizonte, os casos de leishmaniose mucosa não estão sendo adequadamente notificados e é frequente a recidiva de casos previamente tratados com antimoniato de N-metilglucamina,ocorrendo após o primeiro ano de tratamento. Busca ativa para o acompanhamento pós-tratamento deveria ser medida adotada nos centros de referência e tratamento dessa zoonose.

Introduction: Introduction: The American Tegumentary Leishmaniasis affects 15 million people in the world. In tegumental form, the Leishmania (Viannia) braziliensis parasite is its main agent, and the mucosal form happens in 3 to 5% of the patients in the disease cutaneous condition. Objective: To analyze mucosal leishmaniasis reported cases in Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil, focusing on the otorhinolaryngological follow-up in order to control cure after specific treatment. Patients and Method: Analytical study from Belo Horizonte Municipal Secretariat of Health database regarding cases that were reported from 2001 to 2008 ofthe American Tegumentary Leishmaniasis in the cutaneous and mucosal forms, and clinical evaluation of the mucosal form cases. Results: 745 patients were reported, being 539 (72%) in the cutaneous form, 137 (185) as mucosal, and 69 (9%) as non-identified. It was tried to make contact with 137 mucosal form patients. However, incorrect data from their reporting form allowed an effective contact with only 9 (6.6%) patients that had been previously treated with the mucosal form. The N-methylglucamine antimoniate was given to all the patients for more than one year, and they were later submitted to otorhinolaryngologicalexam. Nasal endoscopy and biopsy confirmed recurrence in 3 from the 9 assessed cases. In 3 of them, diagnosis happened exclusively from the active search carried out in the present study. Conclusion: In Belo Horizonte, the mucosal leishmaniasis cases are not being properlyreported, and recurrence of the ones that were previously treated with N-methylglucamine antimoniate has being confirmed as frequent after the first year of treatment. An active search for post-treatment follow-up should be an adopted measure in reference centers and to treat such zoonosis.

Periungual leishmaniasis / Leishmaniose periungueal

The vast majority of cases of cutaneous leishmaniasis are represented by limb injuries. A female patient, white, presented an ulcer with infiltrated borders located on the fourth finger of the left hand following occupational exposure in an area of native forest. Diagnosis of cutaneous leishmaniasis caused by Leishmania of the subgenus Viannia was confirmed. The patient failed to respond to treatment with antimony, but achieved clinical cure after this was associated with pentoxifylline. The case highlights the rarity of the periungual location of the leishmanial lesion and the difficulties encountered in therapy.

A grande maioria dos casos de leishmaniose tegumentar é representada por lesões nos membros. Paciente feminina, branca, diabética, apresentou úlcera com bordas infiltradas, localizada no quarto quirodáctilo esquerdo, após exposição ocupacional em área de mata nativa. Foi confirmado o diagnóstico de leishmaniose tegumentar por Leishmania do subgênero Viannia. Não respondeu ao tratamento com antimonial, mas obteve cura clínica após associação com a pentoxifilina. O caso destaca-se pela raridade da localização periungueal da lesão leishmaniótica e pela dificuldade terapêutica.

Avanços no tratamento da leishmaniose tegumentar do novo mundo nos últimos dez anos: uma revisão sistemática da literatura / Advances in the treatment of cutaneous leishmaniasis in the new world in the last ten years: a systematic literature review

INTRODUÇÃO: O arsenal terapêutico contra a leishmaniose tegumentar é muito restrito. Os antimoniais pentavalentes permanecem como as drogas de escolha para seu tratamento há mais de 50 anos. Apesar da sua eficácia, necessita de injeções diárias, apresenta muitos efeitos colaterais e tempo de cura prolongado.

INTRODUCTION: The therapeutic arsenal against cutaneous leishmaniasis is very limited. Pentavalent antimonial compounds have been the drugs of choice for treatment of this disease for over 50 years. Despite their effectiveness, these drugs require daily injections, have many side effects and present prolonged healing time.

Leishmaniose mucosa: considerações epidemiológicas e de tratamento / Mucosal leishmaniasis: epidemiological and treatment considerations / Leishmaniasis mucosa: consideraciones epidemiológicas y de tratamiento

Na região Sul do Brasil, a leishmaniose tegumentar americana predomina no Estado do Paraná, especialmente ao Norte e Oeste, onde um dos circuitos de produção da doença é localizado. Estima-se que 3 a 5% dos casos de leishmaniose cutânea desenvolvam lesão mucosa, e que cerca de 1% destas podem evoluir para óbito. De longa data, as drogas de escolha para tratamento da doença são os compostos antimoniais sob a forma de sais pentavalentes. O objetivo deste estudo foi descrever características epidemiológicas e de tratamento dos pacientes com leishmaniose mucosa, diagnosticados no período de 2001 a 2007, em municípios localizados na área de abrangência da 13ª Regional de Saúde, com sede no município de Cianorte, no Paraná. As informações foram coletadas do prontuário ambulatorial e das fichas de investigação epidemiológicas do Sistema de Notificação e Informação de Agravos. No período estudado, foram notificados 505 casos de leishmaniose tegumentar americana, 30 deles (6%) na forma mucosa. Foram incluídos no estudo pacientes com diagnóstico de leishmaniose mucosa, que apresentavam exames complementares realizados antes e durante o tratamento. Os resultados evidenciaram a necessidade de acompanhamento cuidadoso dos doentes nas equipes de saúde, dado a possível evolução e presença de efeitos medicamentosos indesejáveis nos pacientes afetados pela condição.

In South Brazil, American tegumentary leishmaniasis is predominant at Paraná, specially on the North and West areas, where it is localized one of the disease's production circuits. It is believed that 3 to 5% of the cases evolve to the mucosal form, and that 1% of these can evolve to death. There is a long time that first choice drugs to treat this disease are the antimony compounds as pentavalent salts. The purpose of this study was to describe epidemiological and treatment characteristics of patients with mucosal leishmaniasis, who were diagnosed during the period from 2001 to 2007 in cities located on the coverage area of the 13 Heath Regional, which is situated in Cianorte, Paraná. The data were collected at the outpatient medical records and the System of Notifications and Information of Diseases epidemiological investigation records. During the mentioned period, 505 cases of American tegumentary leishmaniasis were notified, 30 of them (6%) as the mucosal form. In this study, the patients included were those with diagnosis of mucosal leishmaniasis that had complementary exams performed before and during the treatment. The results showed the need of patients' careful monitoring by health teams, due to the possible evolution of the disease and the presence of unwanted drug effects.

En la región Sur de Brasil, la leishmaniasis tegumentaria americana predomina en el estado de Paraná, principalmente al Norte y Oeste del país, donde está localizado uno de los circuitos de producción de la enfermedad. Se estima que de 3 a 5% de los casos de leishmaniasis cutánea desenvuelvan lesión mucosa, y que cerca de 1% de ellas puedan acabar en muerte. Por mucho tiempo, las drogas escogidas para tratar la enfermedad son los compuestos antimoniales bajo la forma de sales pentavalentes. El objetivo de este estudio fue describir características epidemiológicas y de tratamiento de los pacientes con leishmaniasis mucosa, diagnosticados en el periodo de 2001 a 2007, en municipios localizados en el área de estudio de la 13ª Regional de la Salud, localizada en el municipio de Cianorte, Paraná. Las informaciones fueron colectadas del registro médico y de los papeles de investigación epidemiológicos del SINAN (Sistema de Notificación e Información de Agravios). En el periodo estudiado, fueron notificados 505 casos de leishmaniasis tegumentaria americana, 30 de los cuales (6%) en forma mucosa. Fueron incluidos en el estudio pacientes diagnosticados con leishmaniasis mucosa, que poseían exámenes complementares realizados antes y durante el tratamiento. Los resultados evidenciaron la necesidad de cuidadosamente acompañar los enfermos en los equipos de salud, dada la posible evolución y la presencia de efectos medicamentosos indeseables en los pacientes afectados por la condición.

Haga su diagnostico / Case for diagnosis

Comunicamos un paciente joven, que presentaba una inmunodepresión atribuida al alcohol y la desnutrición, que consultó por numerosas lesiones. Luego de los estudios auxiliares se llegó al diagnóstico y mostró buena respuesta al tratamiento convencional para esta leishmaniasis. Las lesiones polimorfas obligaron a varios diagnósticos diferenciales, entre ellos histoplasmosis, paracoccidioidomicosis, ectima, linfoma.

We report the case of a patient with alcohol intake and malnutrition-related immunosuppression who sought medical attention for multiple ulcerated lesions. Laboratory tests revealed the diagnosis and the patient responded well to conventional anti-leishmaniasis therapy. Polymorphous lesions prompted differential diagnoses such as histoplasmosis, paracoccidioidomycosis, ecthyma and lymphoma.

Biologia molecular aplicada às dermatoses tropicais / Molecular biology in tropical dermatoses

São apresentados conceitos básicos sobre célula, código genético e síntese protéica, e sobre algumas técnicas de biologia molecular, tais como PCR, PCR-RFLP, seqüenciamento de DNA, RT-PCR e immunoblotting. São fornecidos protocolos de extração de nucleotídeos e de proteínas, como salting out no sangue periférico e métodos do fenol-clorofórmio e do trizol em tecidos. Seguem-se exemplos comentados da aplicação de técnicas de biologia molecular para o diagnóstico etiológico e pesquisa em dermatoses tropicais, com ênfase na leishmaniose tegumentar americana e hanseníase.

Initially, basic concepts are presented concerning the cell, genetic code and protein synthesis, and some techniques of molecular biology, such as PCR, PCR-RFLP, DNA sequencing, RT-PCR and immunoblotting. Protocols of nucleotides and of proteins extraction are supplied, such as salting out in peripheral blood allied to phenol-chloroform and trizol methods in skin samples. To proceed, commented examples of application of those techniques of molecular biology for the etiologic diagnosis and for research in tropical dermatoses, with emphasis to American tegumentary leishmaniasis and leprosy are presented.

A urbanização da leishmaniose tegumentar americana no município de Campinas - São Paulo (SP) e região: magnitude do problema e desafios / Urbanization of American Cutaneous Leishmaniasis in Campinas - Sao Paulo (SP) and region: problems and challenges

FUNDAMENTOS - A leishmaniose tegumentar americana ocupa o segundo lugar entre as protozoonoses por vetores no Brasil. OBJETIVOS - Descrever a distribuição da doença na macrorregião de Campinas-SP e identificar as principais dificuldades em sua prevenção. MÉTODOS - A área estudada abrange 42 municípios. Os dados foram coletados no Sistema Nacional de Agravos e de Notificação do Grupo de Vigilância Epidemiológica, de 1998 a 2004, da Superintendência de Controle de Endemias, do Centro de Zoonoses e foi feita revisão da literatura. RESULTADOS - Foram registrados 458 casos, de caráter endêmico e com maior ocorrência em Campinas e Jundiaí. A doença predominava na área urbana (57 por cento), no sexo masculino (62 por cento) e acometia todas as faixas etárias. As espécies vetoras encontradas foram Lutzomyia intermedia sl, L. neivai, L. migonei, L. whitmani, L. fisheri, e L. pessoai. CONCLUSÕES - A leishmaniose tegumentar está distribuída amplamente na região (81 por cento dos municípios estudados) e predominava na área urbana (57 por cento). As dificuldades encontradas em seu controle foram a crescente adaptação do vetor ao peridomicílio, a multiplicidade dos fatores envolvidos na transmissão e a resposta insuficiente às medidas de controle atuais. O acompanhamento do ambiente e da doença, o diagnóstico e o tratamento precoces, a notificação compulsória e o seguimento dos casos, além de investimento em pesquisas, campanhas e ações diretas junto aos pacientes são importantes para o controle da doença.

BACKGROUND - American cutaneous leishmaniasis (ACL) is ranked second among vector-transmitted zoonoses in Brazil. OBJECTIVES - This paper aims at verifying the distribution of this disease in Campinas-SP and surrounding region and to identify the main difficulties for preventive actions to this illness. METHODS - The Campinas area encloses 42 counties. Data from 1998 to 2004 were collected from the National System of Injuries and Notification in Campinas, from the Superintendence for the Control of Endemic Diseases and from the Center for Zoonoses. A literature review on the subject was performed. RESULTS - There were 458 reported endemic cases and most of them were found in the Campinas and Jundiaí metropolitan areas. ACL was predominant in urban areas (57 percent) and among males (62 percent). It was also observed in all age ranges, and among women and children. Among the known vector species, Lutzomyia intermedia sl, L. neivai, L. migonei, L. whitmani, L. fisheri and L. pessoai were reported. CONCLUSIONS - Four hundred and fifty eight cases were reported, in 81 percent of the studied counties. The main difficulties in ACL control have been increasing vector adaptation to the peri-urban environment; the multiplicity of factors involved in its transmission and poor results of current control measures over disease progression. More research efforts are needed to understand the environmental and epidemiological features involved in ACL endemic progression, early diagnosis and treatment. Also important is an efficient notification system, as well as improved patient follow-up and educational programs.

Polymerase chain reaction with two molecular targets in mucosal leishmaniasis' diagnosis: a validation study

We validated the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) with a composite reference standard in 61 patients clinically suspected of having mucosal leishmaniasis, 36 of which were cases and 25 were non-cases according to this reference standard. Patient classification and test application were carried out independently by two blind observers. One pair of primers was used to amplify a fragment of 120 bp in the conserved region of kDNA and another pair was used to amplify the internal transcript spacers (ITS) rDNA. PCR showed 68.6 percent (95 percent CI 59.2-72.6) sensitivity and 92 percent (95 percent CI 78.9-97.7) specificity; positive likelihood ratio: 8.6 (95 percent CI 2.8-31.3) and negative likelihood ratio: 0.3 (95 percent CI 0.3-0.5), when kDNA molecular target was amplified. The test performed better on sensitivity using this target compared to the ITS rDNA molecular target which showed 40 percent (95 percent CI 31.5-42.3) sensitivity and 96 percent (95 percent CI 84.1-99.3) specificity; positive likelihood ratio: 10 (95 percent CI 2.0-58.8) and negative likelihood ratio: 0.6 (95 percent CI 0.6-0.8). The inter-observer agreement was excellent for both tests. Based upon results obtained and due to low performance of conventional methods for diagnosing mucosal leishmaniasis, we consider PCR with kDNA as molecular target is a useful diagnostic test and the ITS rDNA molecular target is useful when the aim is to identify species.