Cutaneous leishmaniasis in Hormozgan, Iran

Background Epidemiology of Cutaneous Leishmaniasis in Hormozgan province during April 1994 to March 1998 was studied. Methods Data were collected from the Health service Centres throughout the province as well as from dermatologists. The patients were diagnosed clinically or paraclinically and all important details were recorded on specially designed forms. Results A total of 4094 patients with 7255 lesions were diagnosed. 42.24% of the sufferers were under 20 years and 6.47% were over 40 years old. 52.10% of the patients had one lesion and 33.98% had two lesions. Most of the cases were seen during January to March. The incidence rate per 10000 ranged from 5.90 in 1998 to 16.98 in 1996. Conclusions A decreasing trend in the number of cases after 1996 may be due to the awareness of local health authorities, preventative activities and education.