Epidemiological Study and Geographical Distribution of Cutaneous Leishmaniasis in Golestan Province, 2014-2016

Background and purpose: Cutaneous leishmaniasis is the second most important tropical disease after malaria which is endemic in many countries, including Iran. This study was conducted to investigate the epidemiology and geographical distribution of cutaneous leishmaniasis in Golestan province, Iran. Materials and methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out in patients with the signs of cutaneous leishmaniasis attending Golestan health-care centers, 2014-2016. Two thin smears were prepared from the margin of lesions and stained using Giemsa stain. They were then studied by light microscope. Data were analyzed applying ANOVA in SPSS V21. Results: There were 1823 cases, of whom 1815 (99.56%) were found positive for the presence of amastigotes. The highest incidence rate of cutaneous leishmaniasis was in fall and in children younger than 9 years of age. Spatial distribution of the disease showed hotspots in Kalaleh and Maraveh Tappeh (P<0.05). Conclusion: In this study, the prevalence of cutaneous leishmaniasis was higher in rural areas. Also, some areas such as Kalaleh and Maraveh Tappeh require urgent attention of prevention sector.