Cutaneous Leishmaniasis in Gozo

Abstract

Cutaneous Leishmaniasis is caused by a vector borne protozoan parasite known to be endemic in Malta and Gozo . The disease normally produces skin ulcers on the exposed parts of the body such as the face, arms and legs. It is often underdiagnosed and presentation to the doctor tends to be late. If left untreated it may leave the patient permanently scarred, a stigma which can cause serious social prejudice. There were 68 (49%) cases of cutaneous Leishmaniasis in Gozo as compared to 71 cases in Malta notified between 1983 to December 1998. It is thought that a substantial number of cases are never recorded. 82% of the cases notified in Gozo originated from only 3 villages, namely Nadur, Ghajnsielem and Qala with decreasing order of incidence. The disease is equally distributed among sexes (50% in both males and females). It is primarily a disease of the young with 59% of cases being under 10 years of age when diagnosed.