Ocular disabilities in leprosy, Larkana district, Sindh, Pakistan

Eye involvement is a common cause of disability and morbidity in leprosy patients. During the Leishmaniasis survey in the mountainous belt, leprosy patients were also checked for different eye complications. The purpose of this survey was to find out the frequency and severity of ophthalmic disabilities and deformities associated with leprosy in Larkana district. The disabilities and deformities noted were graded according to WHO criteria [1982] as grade I, II and III. Eye complications were seen in 43.4% of leprosy patients. There were 71% males and 29% females. Both eyes were affected. Grade I disabilities were more frequent. Eye complications are quite common in leprosy patients of Larkana region. Patients` education, early diagnosis and treatment and continuous surveillance are mandatory to reduce this high figure

Clinical trial of 20% Mat lippia [bucan] topical ointment for cutaneous leishmaniasis; a preliminary trial

Cutaneous leishmaniasis is endemic in many parts of Pakistan. The mainstay of treatment is systemic pentavalent antimonials. However, many indigenous plants are also used for its treatment. To test the hypothesis that Mat lippia [Bucan], a local plant, may be topically effective in the treatment of cutaneous leishmaniasis. The study comprised of two parts. Part 1: An alcoholic extract from the leaves of the plant was obtained and then 20% ointment in petroleum jelly was made. In part 2, eighty patients of cutaneous leishmaniasis were treated with this ointment applied thrice daily for six weeks. Patients were followed up initially twice a week and then at weekly intervals for six weeks. 60% showed excellent response and 20% exhibited fair improvement. 20% Mat lippia ointment seems to be effective in the treatment of leishmaniasis. However, further comparative studies are warranted to confirm these findings