The prevalence of cutaneous leishmaniasis in school children in southwestern Iran, 2009

This study was designed to assess the epidemiological characteristics and molecular characterization of the disease in school children in the city of Dehloran, southwestern Iran. A total of 7,555 school children from the city of Dehloran were surveyed as a descriptive cross-sectional study during autumn 2009. A questionnaire was completed, recording demographic and disease characteristics. Microscopic examination and kinetoplast DNA-PCR assay were carried out for leishmaniasis detection and species identification. The overall prevalence of scars and active lesions were 9.7% and 0.4%, respectively. The prevalence rate of cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) was significantly different between males and females (P < 0.05). The highest rate of CL was detected in the age group of 10–14 years with significant differences (P < 0.05). Most of the lesions were on face (42%). Clinically, 76.5% of the patients had single lesion. Also the prevalence rate in non-native residents was significantly higher than natives (P < 0.05). PCR technique revealed all examined cases as Leishmania major. CL in Dehloran is mainly caused by L. major and measures should be planned for future control programs. In addition, further investigations are required to clarify the possible reservoirs and vectors in the area.