Epidemiological aspects of cutaneous leishmaniasis in Ilam province, west of Iran (2000–2007)

ObjectiveTo investigate the epidemiology of cutaneous leishmaniasis in Ilam province between 2000 and 2007.MethodsThe data of this descriptive cross-sectional study included the existing data regarding the prevalence of cutaneous leishmaniasis in different seasons, years and districts which were reported to Ilam Provincial Health center between 2000 and 2007.ResultsThe analysis of the collected data revealed that Ilam province was one of the endemic foci of zoonotic cutaneous leishmaniasis caused by Leishmania major. The study also showed the rate of cutaneous leishmaniasis incidence with the general rate of 1.2 per one thousand populations. It was also evident that the highest rate of incidence of cutaneous leishmaniasis was in fall and winter, which is one of the most important characteristics of zoonotic cutaneous leishmaniasis. Ulcers were present in 5 161 Patients. Of these, 28.9% were female and 71.1% were male. 3 447 cases (66.8%) had ulcers on hand and foot, 1 213 cases (23.5%) on face and 501 cases (9.7%) on trunk. A total of 1 907 patients (36.9%) had only one ulcer. But 3 254 cases (63.1%) had more than one ulcer. The highest incidence was found among patients with two age groups of 20–29 years old (46.8%) and 10–19 years old (17.3%).ConclusionsWith respect to the increased prevalence of cutaneous leishmaniasis in Ilam province, health care observers should pay further attention on preventing the disease spread.