This protocol covers cutaneous leishmaniasis in which the causative species is Leishmania major. Species identification is clinically relevant because it informs how management decisions are made and what endpoints define success.

Clinical scenario

Cutaneous leishmaniasis caused by Leishmania major. The number of lesions, their location and cosmetic significance, and the patient's immune status are key factors that determine which management pathway applies.

Management approach (partial overview)

For carefully selected patients meeting specific criteria, a non-pharmacological approach involving basic wound management is a recognised first-line option. The full eligibility criteria, monitoring schedule, and decision points are detailed in the complete protocol.

References

Treatment of L. major

No antileishmanial treatment; simple wound care

Watchful waiting is a critical requirement.

Cutaneous lesions usually heal within a month after starting treatment with pentavalent antimonials, either by local inﬁltration [Old World cutaneous leishmaniasis (OWCL)] or given systemically [New World cutaneous leishmaniasis (NWCL)], but large ulcers may take longer.

Treatment failure is present when reepithelialization is incomplete 3 months after starting therapy.

DOI: 10.1111/jtm.12089

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Treatment of Cutaneous Leishmaniasis Caused by Leishmania major

References