Características de la población residente en áreas de trasmisión de leishmaniasis en el Perú, 2010 - 2022 / Characteristics of the population residing in areas of leishmaniasis transmission in Peru, 2010 - 2022

RESUMEN Introducción. La leishmaniasis es una enfermedad zoonótica endémica con amplia distribución en Perú. Objetivo. Identificar los escenarios de transmisión de leishmaniasis y la población que reside en estos, e identificar las características de las poblaciones afectadas durante el periodo 2010 a 2022. Métodos. Estudio descriptivo, transversal, ecológico con unidad de análisis el nivel distrital. Se utilizó datos de fuentes secundarias de acceso público. Resultados. En el periodo de estudio se reportaron 85 117 casos, 7 374 007(22,08%) habitantes residían en 543 distritos con transmisión continua, 11 467 420 (34,33%) habitantes que residían en 454 distritos con reporte esporádico de casos y 14 558 983(43,59%) residían en 893 distritos libres de trasmisión. El 98,16% de los casos ocurrieron en distritos con trasmisión continua, el 1,84%, en distritos con reporte esporádico de casos. La incidencia acumulada media anual fue 3,48 casos/10 000 habitantes. 18 departamentos reportaban trasmisión continua, Madre de Dios (42,45 casos/10 000 habitantes) y Cusco (15,78 casos/10 000 habitantes) tuvieron las tasas más altas. Las poblaciones de mayor riesgo son: hombres, adolescentes y jóvenes; residentes de distritos: de selva, del quintil de mayor pobreza monetaria, del quintil con mayor porcentaje con al menos 1 NBI, y del quintil de menor índice de desarrollo humano. Conclusión. La leishmaniasis tiene amplia distribución en Perú, 56,41% de la población habita en distritos que reportan casos. Existen grupos poblacionales con mayor riesgo absoluto, los cuales pueden ser blanco de intervenciones diferenciadas de prevención y control.

ABSTRACT Introduction. Leishmaniasis is an endemic zoonotic disease widely distributed in Peru. Objectives. Identify transmission scenarios and the population residing in them and identify the characteristics of the affected populations during the period 2010-2022. Methods. Descriptive, cross-sectional, ecological study with district as analysis units. Publicly accessible secondary data sources were used. Results. During the study period, 85,117 cases were reported; 7,374,007 (22.08%) inhabitants live in 543 districts with continuous transmission; 1,146,7420 (34.33%) inhabitants reside in 454 districts with sporadic reports of cases; and 1,455,8983 (43.59%) reside in 893 transmission-free districts. 98.16% of the cases occurred in districts with continuous transmission; 1.84% occurred in districts with sporadic case reports. The mean annual incidence rate was 3.48 cases/10,000 inhabitants. 18 departments report continuous transmission; Madre de Dios (42.45 cases/10,000 inhabitants) and Cusco (15.78 cases/10,000 inhabitants) report the highest rates. The populations with higher absolute risk are men, adolescents, and young people; residents: from jungle districts; from the quintile with the highest monetary poverty; from the quintile with the highest percentage with at least 1 NBI; and from the quintile with the lowest human development index. Conclusion. Leishmaniasis is widely distributed in Peru, with 56.41% of the population living in districts reporting cases. There are population groups with a higher absolute risk, which can be the target of differentiated prevention and control interventions.

Expresión transcripcional de receptores tipo Toll y citoquinas proinflamatorias en macrófagos infectados con Leishmania braziliensis nativa / Transcriptional expression of Toll-like receptors and proinflammatory cytokines in macrophages infected with native Leishmania braziliensis

RESUMEN Introducción. El receptor de tipo Toll (TLR) que interactúe con el promastigote de Leishmania spp. determina la vía de activación celular. Objetivo. Identificar la expresión transcripcional de TLR-3, TLR-4, TLR-9, IL-12 y TNF-α en macrófagos infectados con una cepa nativa de L. braziliensis (Lbn). Métodos. La identificación de Lbn se hizo empleando qPCR para secuencias del DNA del cinetoplasto. Los macrófagos peritoneales de ratones fueron infectados con promastigotes y se midieron la producción de óxido nítrico (ON). Se cuantificaron los niveles transcripcionales para TLRs y citoquinas empleando qRT-PCR. Resultados. Lbn presentó 96% de homología con L. braziliensis. En los infectados con promastigotes se observó elevada producción de ON a las 2 h; significativa expresión transcripcional especialmente de TLR-3 y TLR-9 que se correspondió con la expresión para citoquinas. Conclusión. Lbn activó fuertemente a los macrófagos mediante los TLRs endosomales lo cual puede ser aplicado en el diseño de agonistas para tratar la enfermedad.

ABSTRACT Introduction. The Toll-like receptor (TLR) interacting with the promastigote of Leishmania spp. determines the cellular activation pathway. Objective. To determine the transcriptional expression of TLR-3, TLR-4, TLR-9, IL-12 and TNF-α in macrophages infected with a native strain of L. braziliensis (Lbn). Materials and Methods. Identification of Lbn was performed by qPCR for kinetoplast DNA sequences. Mouse peritoneal macrophages were infected with promastigotes (MI) and nitric oxide (NO) production was measured; transcript levels for TLRs and cytokines were quantified by qRT-PCR. Results. Lbn showed 96% homology to L. braziliensis. High ON production was observed in IMs at 2 h; significant transcriptional expression especially of TLR-3 and TLR-9, which corresponded with expression for cytokines. Conclusions. Lbn strongly activated macrophages via endosomal TLRs, which can be applied in the design of agonists to treat the disease.

The absence of eosinophils is associated with early metastatic lesions in Leishmania amazonensis-infected mice

BACKGROUND Eosinophils are granulocytes that rapidly increase frequency in the bloodstream during helminthic infections and allergic responses. They are found in tissue infected by Leishmania during early disease, but their role during infection is not entirely understood. OBJECTIVES We aim to compare the disease due to Leishmania amazonensis in BALB/c and Δdbl-GATA1 mice, which lack eosinophils. METHODS BALB/c and Δdbl-GATA1 mice infected with L. amazonensis were observed for several weeks. The parasite load and dissemination pattern were assessed. FINDINGS The Δdbl-GATA1 mice developed an anticipated dissemination of L. amazonensis and a worsening disease. No differences were found in the lesion development or the parasite load in the footpad among Δdbl-GATA1 mice and BALB/c eight weeks after infection. However, nine weeks after infection, massive growth of metastatic lesions appeared in several parts of the skin in Δdbl-GATA1 mice, weeks earlier than BALB/c. We observed increased parasites in the bloodstream, probably an essential dissemination route. Thirteen weeks after infection, metastatic lesions were found in all Δdbl-GATA1 mice. MAIN CONCLUSION These results suggest a protective role of eosinophils in delaying the disease caused by L. amazonensis, although several limitations of this mice strain must be considered.

Characterisation of an area of coexistent visceral and cutaneous leishmaniasis transmission in the State of Piauí, Brazil

BACKGROUND In Brazil, transmission of visceral and cutaneous leishmaniasis has expanded geographically over the last decades, with both clinical forms occurring simultaneously in the same area. OBJECTIVES This study characterised the clinical, spatial, and temporal distribution, and performed entomological surveillance and natural infection analysis of a leishmaniasis-endemic area. METHODS In order to characterise the risk of leishmaniasis transmission in Altos, Piauí, we described the clinical and socio-demographic variables and the spatial and temporal distribution of cases of American visceral leishmaniasis (AVL) and American cutaneous leishmaniasis (ACL) cases and identified potential phlebotomine vectors. FINDINGS The urban area concentrated almost 54% of ACL and 86.8% of AVL cases. The temporal and spatial distribution of AVL and ACL cases in Altos show a reduction in the number of risk areas, but the presence of permanent disease transmission foci is observed especially in the urban area. 3,808 phlebotomine specimens were captured, with Lutzomyia longipalpis as the most frequent species (98.45%). Of the 35 females assessed for natural infection, one specimen of Lu. longipalpis tested positive for the presence of Leishmania infantum and Leishmania braziliensis DNA. MAIN CONCLUSION Our results indicate the presence of risk areas for ACL and AVL in the municipality of Altos and highlight the importance of entomological surveillance to further understand a possible role of Lu. longipalpis in ACL transmission.

Simple and promising paper-based electrochemical platform for serological detection of American tegumentary leishmaniasis

BACKGROUND American tegumentary leishmaniasis (ATL) is an endemic neglected tropical disease (NTD), its conventional treatment is toxic, slow, and invasive. Rapid diagnosis is crucial for the clinical management of suspected patients, so the development and use of low-cost, miniaturised and portable devices could be the key. OBJECTIVES This work aimed to develop a simple paper-based electrochemical platform for the serological detection of ATL. METHODS Platform was fabricated in Whatman N°1 paper, contains a hydrophobic zone generated by wax printing, two pencil graphite electrodes, and uses specific crude extracts (CA) antigens for ATL immuno-determination. The platform performance was analysed by measuring the relative impedance change for different antigen-antibody combinations. Then, 10 serum human samples previously diagnosed by the gold standard (five positive ATL cases and five non-ATL cases) were evaluated. FINDINGS The platform presented a linear response for the charge transfer resistance (ΔRct) and the interface reactance (ΔXc). Also, optimal working conditions were established (1/60 serum dilution and 180 µg/mL CA concentration). Then, the platform permits to distinguish between ATL and non-ATL (p < 0.05) human serum samples. MAIN CONCLUSIONS Our platform could allow the diagnosis, management, and monitoring of leishmaniasis while being an extremely simple and environmentally friendly technology.

Leishmania (Leishmania) infantum DNA detection in Nyssomyia neivai in Vale do Ribeira, Paraná, Brazil

BACKGROUND The incidence of visceral leishmaniasis (VL) has increased in the Southern region of Brazil in recent years, especially in the State of Paraná. New species have been suggested with potential to act as vector in VL endemic areas. OBJECTIVES Identify the Leishmania species in sand fly specimens collected from 2016 to 2018 in the municipality of Itaperuçu, Vale do Ribeira, Paraná, Brazil. METHODS Light traps were used for collections and for the analysis of sand fly were used the multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) methodology and subsequent sequencing. FINDINGS Among the collected specimens, 88.62% were attributed to the species Nyssomyia neivai, which were grouped into 176 pools. Three positive pools were detected: two with Leishmania (Viannia) braziliensis and one with L. (Leishmania) infantum. The positivity rate for the parasite was 0.25% based on the presence of at least one infected insect in the pool. MAIN CONCLUSIONS The detection of L. infantum in Ny. neivai draws attention due to its abundance and anthropophily in the State of Paraná. Moreover, this finding is considered as an alert and suggests that the vector competence of Ny. neivai and the criteria for its incrimination should be carried out, given its wide distribution in southern of Brazil.

Viable Leishmania parasites in the absence of an in vitro IFN-γ response in asymptomatic carriers

ABSTRACT Asymptomatic infection (the absence or inapparent signs and symptoms) has been observed in many endemic areas of leishmaniasis, however, little is known about the parasitological and immunological factors associated with this type of infection. This study aimed to identify the in vitro expression of IFN-γ in asymptomatic carriers of viable Leishmania parasites. Asymptomatic infection was identified using the Montenegro skin test in an at-risk population from Yucatan, Mexico. Parasite viability was evinced in the blood by 7SL RNA transcripts amplification. The expression of mRNA IFN-γ was analyzed in peripheral blood mononuclear cells stimulated with soluble Leishmania antigen, using RT-qPCR. Parasite viability was observed in 33.3 % (5/15) of asymptomatic subjects. No differences were found in the expression of IFN-γ between asymptomatic and healthy subjects, and no correlation was found between the presence of viable parasites and the expression of IFN-γ. This study demonstrates the persistence of Leishmania parasites in the absence of an in vitro IFN-γ response in asymptomatic carriers from Mexico.

Factors associated with survival in patients with visceral leishmaniasis treated at a reference hospital in northern Minas Gerais - Brazil

ABSTRACT Background: Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is a public health problem and is a relevant cause of death in developing countries. This study aimed to evaluate the 20-year survival and predictors of worse prognosis in patients with VL admitted to a reference hospital for the treatment of infectious diseases between 1995 and 2016 in northern Minas Gerais, an area of high endemicity for VL. Methods: This retrospective cohort study was conducted at a hospital in northern Minas Gerais, Brazil. All patients with VL were evaluated over a 20-year period. The medical records were thoroughly analyzed. Cox regression analysis was performed to estimate factors associated with the probability of survival. Results: The cohort included 972 individuals, mostly male children <10 years old, from urban areas who presented at admission with the classic triad of fever, hepatosplenomegaly, and skin pallor. The mean hemoglobin level was 7.53 mg/dl. The mean interval between symptom onset and hospital admission was 40 days. The instituted therapies ranged from pentavalent antimonates to amphotericin, or both. The probability of survival was reduced to 78% one year after symptom onset. Hemoglobin levels and age were strongly associated with the probability of survival. Conclusions: Regardless of the mechanism underlying the reduction in hemoglobin and the non-modifiable factors of age, early initiation of drug treatment is the most appropriate strategy for increasing survival in patients with VL, which challenges health systems to reduce the interval between the onset of symptoms and hospital admission.

FVB/NJ strain as a mouse model for cutaneous leishmaniasis by Leishmania (L.) amazonensis

BACKGROUND Leishmaniases encompass a spectrum of neglected diseases caused by parasites of the genus Leishmania, grouped in two forms: tegumentary and visceral leishmaniasis. OBJECTIVES In this study, we propose Friend Virus B NIH Jackson (FVB/NJ) mouse strain as a new experimental model of infection with Leishmania (Leishmania) amazonensis, the second most prevalent agent of tegumentary leishmaniasis in Brazil. METHODS AND FINDINGS We performed in vitro infections of FVB/NJ macrophages and compared them with BALB/c macrophages, showing that BALB/c cells have higher infection percentages and a higher number of amastigotes/cell. Phagocytosis assays indicated that BALB/c and FVB/NJ macrophages have similar capacity to uptake parasites after 5 min incubations. We also investigated promastigotes' resistance to sera from FVB/NJ and BALB/c and observed no difference between the two sera, even though FVB/NJ has a deficiency in complement components. Finally, we subcutaneously infected FVB/NJ and BALB/c mice with 2 × 106 parasites expressing luciferase. Analysis of lesion development for 12 weeks showed that FVB/NJ and BALB/c mice have similar lesion profiles and parasite burdens. MAIN CONCLUSIONS This work characterises for the first time the FVB/NJ mouse as a new model for tegumentary leishmaniasis caused by Leishmania (L.) amazonensis.

Spatial analysis of American cutaneous leishmaniasis in the state of Amazonas

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE To evaluate, using spatial analysis, the occurrence of American Cutaneous Leishmaniasis (ACL) and analyze its association with the municipal human development index (MHDI) and deforestation in the state of Amazonas, Brazil, from 2016 to 2020. METHODS This ecological study, carried out from January 2016 to December 2020, included the 62 municipalities of the state of Amazonas. The incidence rate of ACL was determined in space and time. Using Multiple Linear Regression by Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) and Spatial Autoregressive Regression (SAR) models, the relationship between incidence rates and Human Development Index (HDI) and deforestation was analyzed., The high- and low-risk clusters were identified by employing the Getis-Ord Gi* statistic. RESULTS A total of 7,499 cases of ACL were registered in all 62 municipalities in the state. Most cases were in male (n=5,924; 79.24%), with the greatest frequency in the population aged from 20 to 39 years (n=3,356; 44.7%). The incidence rate in the state of Amazonas was 7.34 cases per 100,000 inhabitants-year, with the municipalities of Rio Preto da Eva and Presidente Figueiredo showing the highest rates (1,377.5 and 817.5 cases per 100,000 population-year, respectively). The ACL cases were clustered into specific areas related to those municipalities with the highest incidence rates. The SAR model revealed a positive relationship between ACL and deforestation. CONCLUSIONS The occurrence of ACL was evident in a variety of patterns in the state of Amazonas; the high incidence rates and persistence of this disease in this state were linked to deforestation. The temporal distribution showed variations in the incidence rates during each year. Our results can help optimize the measures needed to prevent and control this disease in the state.

Prediction of visceral leishmaniasis incidence using the Seasonal Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average model (SARIMA) in the state of Maranhão, Brazil / Previsão da incidência da leishmaniose visceral usando o modelo de média móvel integrado autorregressivo sazonal (SARIMA) no Maranhão, Brasil

Abstract Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is an infectious disease predominant in countries located in the tropics. The prediction of occurrence of infectious diseases through epidemiologic modeling has revealed to be an important tool in the understanding of its occurrence dynamic. The objective of this study was to develop a forecasting model for the incidence of VL in Maranhão using the Seasonal Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average model (SARIMA). We collected monthly data regarding VL cases from the National Disease Notification System (SINAN) corresponding to the period between 2001 and 2018. The Box-Jenkins method was applied in order to adjust a SARIMA prediction model for VL general incidence and by sex (male or female) for the period between January 2019 and December 2013. For 216 months of this time series, 10,431 cases of VL were notified in Maranhão, with an average of 579 cases per year. With regard to age range, there was a higher incidence among the pediatric public (0 to 14 years of age). There was a predominance in male cases, 6437 (61.71%). The Box-Pierce test figures for overall, male and female genders supported by the results of the Ljung-Box test suggest that the autocorrelations of residual values act as white noise. Regarding monthly occurrences in general and by gender, the SARIMA models (2,0,0) (2,0,0), (0,1,1) (0,1,1) and (0,1,1) (2, 0, 0) were the ones that mostly adjusted to the data respectively. The model SARIMA has proven to be an adequate tool for predicting and analyzing the trends in VL incidence in Maranhão. The time variation determination and its prediction are decisive in providing guidance in health measure intervention.

Resumo A leishmaniose visceral (LV) é uma doença de natureza infecciosa, predominante em países de zonas tropicais. A predição de ocorrência de doenças infecciosas através da modelagem epidemiológica tem se revelado uma importante ferramenta no entendimento de sua dinâmica de ocorrência. O objetivo deste estudo foi desenvolver um modelo de previsão da incidência da LV no Maranhão usando o modelo de Média Móvel Integrada Autocorrelacionada Sazonal (SARIMA). Foram coletados os dados mensais de casos de LV através do Sistema de Informação de Agravos de Notificação (SINAN) correspondentes ao período de 2001 a 2018. O método de Box-Jenkins foi aplicado para ajustar um modelo de predição SARIMA para incidência geral e por sexo (masculino e feminino) de LV para o período de janeiro de 2019 a dezembro de 2023. Durante o período de 216 meses dessa série temporal, foram registrados 10.431 casos de LV no Maranhão, com uma média de 579 casos por ano. Em relação à faixa etária, houve maior registro no público pediátrico (0 a 14 anos). Houve predominância do sexo masculino, com 6437 casos (61,71%). Os valores do teste de Box-Pierce para incidência geral, sexo masculino e feminino reforçados pelos resultados do teste Ljung-Box sugerem que as autocorrelações de resíduos apresentam um comportamento de ruído branco. Para incidência mensal geral e por sexo masculino e feminino, os modelos SARIMA (2,0,0) (2,0,0), (0,1,1) (0,1,1) e (0,1,1) (2, 0, 0) foram os que mais se ajustaram aos dados, respectivamente. O modelo SARIMA se mostrou uma ferramenta adequada de previsão e análise da tendência de incidência da LV no Maranhão. A determinação da variação temporal e sua predição são determinantes no norteamento de medidas de intervenção em saúde.

Spatio-temporal analysis of the visceral leishmaniasis in the state of Alagoas, Brazil / Análise espacial-temporal da leishmaniose visceral no estado de Alagoas

Visceral leishmaniosis is a neglected tropical disease. We evaluated the spatial distribution of cases of visceral leishmaniosis in the state of Alagoas, Brazil. All cases of VL, registered by the health department, were analyzed and georeferenced. Results: Between 2008 and 2017, 97.1% of the municipalities presented sporadic classification of transmission. With temporal evolution, the incidence of cases of visceral leishmaniosis was concentrated in most municipalities in the microregion of Santana do Ipanema-AL. Space-time analysis, if considered, may promote the improvement of surveillance and control actions of visceral leishmaniosis.

A leishmaniose visceral é uma doença tropical negligenciada. Foram avaliadas a distribuição espacial dos casos de leishmaniose visceral no estado de Alagoas. Todos os casos de LV, registrados pela secretaria de saúde, foram analisados e georreferenciados. Entre 2008 e 2017, 97,1% dos municípios apresentaram classificação esporádica de transmissão. Com a evolução temporal, a incidência de casos de leishmaniose visceral se concentrou na maioria dos municípios da microrregião de Santana do Ipanema-AL. A análise espaço-tempo, se considerada, pode promover o aprimoramento das ações de vigilância e controle da leishmaniose visceral.

Prediction of visceral leishmaniasis incidence using the Seasonal Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average model (SARIMA) in the state of Maranhão, Brazil

Abstract Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is an infectious disease predominant in countries located in the tropics. The prediction of occurrence of infectious diseases through epidemiologic modeling has revealed to be an important tool in the understanding of its occurrence dynamic. The objective of this study was to develop a forecasting model for the incidence of VL in Maranhão using the Seasonal Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average model (SARIMA). We collected monthly data regarding VL cases from the National Disease Notification System (SINAN) corresponding to the period between 2001 and 2018. The Box-Jenkins method was applied in order to adjust a SARIMA prediction model for VL general incidence and by sex (male or female) for the period between January 2019 and December 2013. For 216 months of this time series, 10,431 cases of VL were notified in Maranhão, with an average of 579 cases per year. With regard to age range, there was a higher incidence among the pediatric public (0 to 14 years of age). There was a predominance in male cases, 6437 (61.71%). The Box-Pierce test figures for overall, male and female genders supported by the results of the Ljung-Box test suggest that the autocorrelations of residual values act as white noise. Regarding monthly occurrences in general and by gender, the SARIMA models (2,0,0) (2,0,0), (0,1,1) (0,1,1) and (0,1,1) (2, 0, 0) were the ones that mostly adjusted to the data respectively. The model SARIMA has proven to be an adequate tool for predicting and analyzing the trends in VL incidence in Maranhão. The time variation determination and its prediction are decisive in providing guidance in health measure intervention.

Resumo A leishmaniose visceral (LV) é uma doença de natureza infecciosa, predominante em países de zonas tropicais. A predição de ocorrência de doenças infecciosas através da modelagem epidemiológica tem se revelado uma importante ferramenta no entendimento de sua dinâmica de ocorrência. O objetivo deste estudo foi desenvolver um modelo de previsão da incidência da LV no Maranhão usando o modelo de Média Móvel Integrada Autocorrelacionada Sazonal (SARIMA). Foram coletados os dados mensais de casos de LV através do Sistema de Informação de Agravos de Notificação (SINAN) correspondentes ao período de 2001 a 2018. O método de Box-Jenkins foi aplicado para ajustar um modelo de predição SARIMA para incidência geral e por sexo (masculino e feminino) de LV para o período de janeiro de 2019 a dezembro de 2023. Durante o período de 216 meses dessa série temporal, foram registrados 10.431 casos de LV no Maranhão, com uma média de 579 casos por ano. Em relação à faixa etária, houve maior registro no público pediátrico (0 a 14 anos). Houve predominância do sexo masculino, com 6437 casos (61,71%). Os valores do teste de Box-Pierce para incidência geral, sexo masculino e feminino reforçados pelos resultados do teste Ljung-Box sugerem que as autocorrelações de resíduos apresentam um comportamento de ruído branco. Para incidência mensal geral e por sexo masculino e feminino, os modelos SARIMA (2,0,0) (2,0,0), (0,1,1) (0,1,1) e (0,1,1) (2, 0, 0) foram os que mais se ajustaram aos dados, respectivamente. O modelo SARIMA se mostrou uma ferramenta adequada de previsão e análise da tendência de incidência da LV no Maranhão. A determinação da variação temporal e sua predição são determinantes no norteamento de medidas de intervenção em saúde.

Spatio-temporal analysis of the visceral leishmaniasis in the state of Alagoas, Brazil

Abstract Visceral leishmaniosis is a neglected tropical disease. We evaluated the spatial distribution of cases of visceral leishmaniosis in the state of Alagoas, Brazil. All cases of VL, registered by the health department, were analyzed and georeferenced. Results: Between 2008 and 2017, 97.1% of the municipalities presented sporadic classification of transmission. With temporal evolution, the incidence of cases of visceral leishmaniosis was concentrated in most municipalities in the microregion of Santana do Ipanema-AL. Space-time analysis, if considered, may promote the improvement of surveillance and control actions of visceral leishmaniosis.

Resumo A leishmaniose visceral é uma doença tropical negligenciada. Foram avaliadas a distribuição espacial dos casos de leishmaniose visceral no estado de Alagoas. Todos os casos de LV, registrados pela secretaria de saúde, foram analisados e georreferenciados. Entre 2008 e 2017, 97,1% dos municípios apresentaram classificação esporádica de transmissão. Com a evolução temporal, a incidência de casos de leishmaniose visceral se concentrou na maioria dos municípios da microrregião de Santana do Ipanema-AL. A análise espaço-tempo, se considerada, pode promover o aprimoramento das ações de vigilância e controle da leishmaniose visceral.

Comparación de pruebas moleculares para el diagnóstico de Leishmania spp. en lesiones cutáneas con baja carga parasitaria

Introducción: La leishmaniasis cutánea (LC) es un problema grave de salud pública en Panamá. El diagnóstico de esta parasitosis ha sido siempre desafiante, no sólo debido a su similitud con otras infecciones dérmicas, sino también a características particulares de las lesiones, como cargas parasitarias bajas. ​Materiales y Métodos: En este estudio, se evaluaron mediante cuatro métodos moleculares, 235 muestras de ADN procedentes de lesiones con frotis negativos por LC obtenidas durante el período 2015-2019. Resultados: Los resultados señalan que las sensibilidades encontradas fueron de 75.6% (IC 0.6234-0.8709) para la PCR kDNA-Género específico, de 66.7% (IC 0.5359-0.776) para la PCR Hsp70-Género específico y de 77.6% (IC 0.645-0.8949) para la qPCR 18S ribosomal. Todas las pruebas obtuvieron un valor predictivo positivo de 100%, mientras que el valor predictivo negativo más alto fue con la qPCR (80.58%) y el más bajo con el PCR Hsp70-Género específico (73.2%). En cuanto a la precisión de diagnóstico se obtuvo un rango mayor del 82% en todas las pruebas evaluadas. Conclusión: Este estudio confirma la buena sensibilidad de la PCR kDNA-Viannia para el análisis de lesiones de LC con baja carga parasitaria. Esta metodología es relativamente fácil de estandarizar, por lo que se recomienda su uso en laboratorios clínicos regionales de Panamá. Aun cuando la qPCR 18S ribosomal presentó una sensibilidad relativamente menor, el uso de esta metodología debe ser también considerada por su facilidad de uso, menor tiempo de ejecución y capacidad de cuantificación. (provisto por Infomedic International)

Introduction: Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is a serious public health problem in Panama. The diagnosis of this parasitosis has always been challenging, not only because of its similarity to other dermal infections, but also because of characteristics of the lesions, such as low parasite loads. Materials and Methods: In this study, 235 DNA samples from smear-negative lesions by LC obtained during the period 2015-2019 were evaluated by four molecular methods. Results: The results indicate that the sensitivities found were 75.6% (CI 0.6234-0.8709) for kDNA-Gene-specific PCR, 66.7% (CI 0.5359-0.776) for Hsp70-Gene-specific PCR and 77.6% (CI 0.645-0.8949) for 18S ribosomal qPCR. All tests obtained a positive predictive value of 100%, while the highest negative predictive value was with qPCR (80.58%) and the lowest with Hsp70-Gene-specific PCR (73.2%). In terms of diagnostic accuracy, a range greater than 82% was obtained in all the tests evaluated. Conclusion: This study confirms the good sensitivity of kDNA-Viannia PCR for the analysis of LC lesions with low parasite load. This methodology is relatively easy to standardize, so it is recommended for use in regional clinical laboratories in Panama. Although 18S ribosomal qPCR showed a relatively lower sensitivity, the use of this methodology should also be considered because of its ease of use, shorter execution time and quantification capacity. (provided by Infomedic International)

Uso da laserterapia de baixa potência no tratamento cutâneo da leishmaniose: um estudo quase-experimental / The use of low-level laser therapy in the treatment of cutaneous leishmaniasis: a quasi-experimental study

OBJETIVO: Analisar os efeitos do laser de baixa potência na intervenção às lesões decorrentes da Leishmaniose Cutânea. MÉTODO: Trata-se de um estudo quase-experimental, duplo-cego e randomizado realizado em um centro de referência do Norte de Minas Gerais. Foram alocados aleatoriamente 07 pacientes que foram submetidos ao tratamento endovenoso e curativos locais da leishmaniose cutânea, a saber: 03 no grupo controle, onde fizeram uso do tratamento convencional, e 04 no grupo experimental, que foram submetidos a aplicação da laserterapia de baixa potência, além da terapêutica habitual. Foi avaliado como desfecho primário a redução do tamanho das lesões, por meio da adaptação da ferramenta Pressure Ulcer Scale for Healing. A análise dos dados foi conduzida por meio de uma estatística comparativa pareada com teste T. RESULTADOS: Não houve diferença significativa entre os grupos controle e experimental. CONCLUSÃO: A laserterapia de baixa potência não parece favorecer a cicatrização das lesões por leishmaniose cutânea.

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the effects of low-level laser therapy in treating lesions resulting from cutaneous leishmaniasis. METHODS: This is a double-blind, randomized, quasi-experimental study conducted at a reference center in the northern region of Minas Gerais. Seven patients were randomly assigned to receive intravenous and local wound care for cutaneous leishmaniasis. Specifically, three patients were assigned to the control group and received conventional treatment, while four patients were assigned to the experimental group and received low-level laser therapy plus standard therapeutic measures. The primary outcome measure was the reduction in lesion size as assessed by the adapted Pressure Ulcer Scale for Healing. Paired comparison statistics using the t-test were used for data analysis. RESULTS: No significant difference was observed between the control and experimental groups. CONCLUSION: Low-level laser therapy does not appear to improve the healing of cutaneous leishmaniasis lesions.

Leishmaniose Visceral Humana: monitoramento epidemiológico e indicadores de vida nos municípios da Bahia, Brasil / Human Visceral Leishmaniasis: epidemiological monitoring and life indicators in the municipalities of Bahia, Brazil

O comportamento dos indicadores de vida dos casos notificados de Leishmaniose Visceral (LV) na Bahia e fatores sociodemográficos foram analisados. Trata-se de um estudo analítico e retrospectivo (2010 a 2020) que utilizou dados secundários do SINAN/DATASUS. Foram analisados dados de notificações, incidência, transmissão, estratificação de risco e indicadores de vida. No período foram registrados 3.573 casos de LV, maior incidência de 3,52 casos/100 mil habitantes e transmissão esporádica na maioria dos municípios. A Taxa de Incremento Anual (TIA) no Núcleo Regional de Saúde Sul e Leste apresentou valores significativos para a incidência e, para a letalidade, na Oeste, Leste e Centro-Norte. O Disability Adjusted Life Years (DALY) demonstrou que a população baiana infectada perdeu 10 anos de vida. A análise de aspectos individuais dos municípios permitiu identificar a necessidade de implementação de políticas públicas efetivas nessa esfera administrativa.

The behavior of life indicators of notified cases of Visceral Leishmaniasis (VL) in Bahia and sociodemographic factors were analyzed. The study analyzes the behavior of life indicators of notified cases of Visceral Leishmaniasis (VL) in Bahia and its correlation with sociodemographic factors. This is an analytical and retrospective study (2010 - 2020) that used the SINAN/DATASUS secondary database between. Were analyzed data on notifications, incidence, transmission, risk stratification and life indicators. During the period there were 3,573 cases of VL, highest incidence of 3.52 cases/100,000 inhabitants and sporadic transmission in most municipalities. The Annual Increment Rate (AIR) in the South and East health macro-regions showed significant values for incidence and lethality in the West, East and Center-North regions. Disability Adjusted Life Years (DALY) showed that the infected Bahian population lost 10 years of life. The analysis of individual aspects of the municipalities made it possible to identify the need to implement effective public policies at this administrative level.

Temporal trend in the incidence of human visceral leishmaniasis in Brazil / Tendência temporal da incidência de leishmaniose visceral humana no Brasil

Abstract It is an ecological study that analyzed the time trend of visceral leishmaniasis incidence rates in Brazil using segmented time regression by joinpoints. There was a decreasing incidence rate of this disease in the country with an average annual percent change (AAPC) of -5 (CI95%: -9.1; -0.6) and a reduction of 1.69 cases/100 thousand inhabitants in 2007, and 0.91/100 thousand inhabitants in 2020. The Central-West region showed the highest reduction percent (AAPC: -9.1; CI95%: -13.8; -4.3), followed by the Southeast region (AAPC: -8.7; -14.6; -2.5). The North and South regions showed the largest number of joinpoints in the time series. The highest incidences were recorded in the male population, however, stable (AAPC: 2.14; CI95%: -8.3; 0). In the age group analysis, the trend was decreasing for the groups from 0 to 4 years old (AAPC: -7.7; CI95%: -12.6; -2.4), 5 to 9 years old (AAPC: -7.3; CI95%: -13.6; -0,4) and 10 to 14 years old (AAPC: -5.5; CI95%: -10.3; -0.3). It was found that although Visceral Leishmaniasis is an endemic disease in Brazil, there was a decrease in its incidence rate from 2007 to 2020.

Resumo Trata-se de um estudo ecológico que analisou a tendência temporal das taxas de incidência de leishmaniose visceral no Brasil mediante regressão temporal segmentada por pontos de inflexão. Observou-se tendência de decréscimo na taxa de incidência dessa patologia no país, com variação variação percentual média anual (average annual percent change - AAPC) de -5 (IC95%: -9,1; -0,6) e redução de 1,69 casos/100 mil habitantes em 2007, para 0,91/100 mil habitantes em 2020. A região Centro-Oeste apresentou a maior redução do AAPC (AAPC: -9,1; IC95%: -13,8; -4,3), seguida da região Sudeste (AAPC: -8,7; -14,6; -2,5). As regiões Norte e Sul apresentaram o maior número de pontos de inflexão (joinpoint) na série temporal. As maiores incidências foram registradas na população masculina, porém com tendência estacionária (AAPC: 2,14; IC95%: -8,3; 0). Na análise por faixa etária, a tendência foi decrescente nos grupos de 0 a 4 anos (AAPC: -7,7; IC95%: -12,6; -2,4), 5 a 9 anos (AAPC: -7,3; IC95%: -13,6; -0,4) e de 10 a 14 anos (AAPC: -5,5; IC95%: -10,3; -0,3). Verificou-se que, apesar de a leishmaniose visceral se tratar de uma doença endêmica no Brasil, houve declínio na sua taxa de incidência no período de 2007 a 2020.

Perfil epidemiológico das notificações de leishmaniose no estado de Pernambuco no Brasil de 2015-2019 / Epidemiological profile of leishmaniasis notifications in the Pernambuco state in Brazil from 2015-2019

Aqui, fornecemos uma análise epidemiológica da leishmaniose em Pernambuco, Brasil, de 2015 a 2019. Nossos resultados revelaram 1.705 casos de leishmaniose tegumentar americana-LTA e 859 casos de leishmaniose visceral-LV. LV e LTA afetam crianças de 1 a 4 anos (23% e 3,2% dos casos, respectivamente) e adultos de 20 a 39 anos (26% e 28%, respectivamente), principalmente mulheres. O maior percentual (54,6%) de casos de LV foi encontrado na área urbana, enquanto LTA ocorreu principalmente na área rural (63,2%). Indivíduos com maior escolaridade foram menos acometidos pela leishmaniose e dados de prognóstico revelaram boas chances de cura clínica, mas óbitos ainda são registrados. Esses dados mostram que ações preventivas de saúde devem ser desenvolvidas para impedir a disseminação da leishmaniose, reduzir seu impacto na saúde pública e restaurar a qualidade de vida da população. Este estudo pode ser útil na elaboração de estratégias para minimizar os impactos da leishmaniose.

Here, we provide an epidemiological analysis of leishmaniasis in Pernambuco, Brazil, from 2015 to 2019. Our results revealed 1,705 of American cutaneous leishmaniasis-ACL and 859 cases of visceral leishmaniasis-VL. VL and ACL affect children aged 1­4 years (23% and 3.2% of all cases, respectively) and adults aged 20­39 years (26% and 28%, respectively), mainly women. The highest percentage (54.6%) of VL cases was found in urban areas, while ACL occurred mainly in rural areas (63.2%). Individuals with a higher level of education were less affected by leishmaniasis and data on prognosis revealed good chances of clinical cure, but deaths are still recorded. These data show that preventive health actions must be developed to hinder leishmaniasis spread, reduce its impact on public health, and restore the population's life quality. This study can be useful in further elaboration of strategies to minimize leishmaniasis impacts.

Comparación de la eficacia y toxicidad del estibogluconato de sodio y antimoniato de meglumina en el tratamiento de leishmaniasis cutánea en Perú / Efficacy and safety of sodium stibogluconate compared to meglumine antimoniate in the treatment of cutaneous leishmaniasis in Peru

Objetivos : Comparar la eficacia y toxicidad del antimoniato de meglumina (AM) y estibogluconato sódico (EGS) en el tratamiento de leishmaniasis cutánea (LC) en un hospital general. Material y métodos : Serie de casos comparativa de 193 pacientes con LC tratados en tres ensayos clínicos con AM (n=69) y EGS (n=124) durante 2001-2010. La administración de ambas drogas fue vía endovenosa lenta de 20 mg Sb5+/kg/día por 20 días consecutivos siguiendo las normativas de la OPS y OMS. La información clínica, toxicidad y eficacia fue obtenida de las historias clínicas almacenadas en el centro de investigación según la normativa local e internacional. Resultados : Las características demográficas fueron similares entre grupos, pero el tamaño y número de lesiones fueron mayores en el grupo AM. La eficacia del tratamiento con AM fue 76,0% versus 68,4% con EGS (p=0,340) y 55,1% versus 50,8% (p=0,570) en el análisis por protocolo y de intención de tratar, respectivamente. No se observaron efectos adversos inmediatos. Los síntomas más frecuentemente reportados fueron disgeusia (37,0%), mareos (32,0%), cefalea (36,0%), artralgias (31,0%) y linfangitis (21,0%). Los tres primeros síntomas, así como elevación de transaminasas, leucopenia, trombocitopenia y QTc prolongado fueron frecuentes en el grupo EGS, pero clínica y estadísticamente no significativos. El tratamiento fue suspendido definitivamente por toxicidad severa únicamente con EGS por emesis refractaria (2 participantes) y QTc prolongado con extrasístoles (1 participante). Conclusiones : La eficacia del tratamiento con AM y EGS fue comparable. La administración endovenosa de ambos no produjo efectos adversos inmediatos, aunque sí alteraciones clínicas y laboratoriales usuales.

SUMMARY Objectives : To compare the efficacy and safety of sodium stibogluconate (SS) and meglumine antimoniate (MA) in the treatment of cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) in a general hospital. Methods: Case-series of 193 patients with CL treated in three clinical trials with MA (n=69) and SS (n=124) during 2001-2010. Both study drugs were administered intravenously at a slow speed at 20 mg Sb5+/kg/day for 20 consecutive days following WHO-PAHO recommendations. Clinical and safety data were gathered from clinical files. Results: Demographic characteristics were similar between the study groups, but the size and number of lesions were higher in the MA group. Efficacy was 76.0% in the MA vs. 68.4% in the SS group (p=0.340) and 55.1% vs. 50.8% (p=0.570) in the per protocol and intention to treat analysis. respectively. Side effects more frequently reported were dysgeusia (37.0%). dizziness (32.0%). headache (36.0%). arthralgia (31.0%) and lymphangitis (21.0%). These first three symptoms as well as elevation of transaminases, leukopenia, thrombocytopenia and prolonged QTc were numerically more frequent in the SS group but without reaching statistical significance. Treatment was stopped definitively for severe toxicity in the SS group due to refractory emesis (two patients) and prolonged QTc (one patient). Conclusions: The efficacy of MA and SS is comparable. The intravenous administration of these compounds did not produce immediate reactions, but it was associated with unusual clinical and laboratory abnormalities.