A New Focus of Anthroponotic Cutaneous Leishmaniasis in Dehbakry Region of Bam District, Southeastern Iran 2008

Background and aims: Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is still a health problem in the world, including Iran where its cases have significantly increased in recent years. The objective of this study was to assess a new focus of anthroponotic CL in rural communities after the earthquake in Bam district. Method: After the report of the provincial health authorities, this study has been carried out in the summer of 2008 in Dehbakry region, Bam district, Kerman province in southeastern Iran. Results: Overall, 3884 individuals consisting of 1913 females (49.3%) and 1971 males (50.7%) were physically examined for the presence of active lesions or scars. The overall prevalence rate was 5.3%; 6.3% in females and 4. 3% in males with no significant difference. Most of the infection was in age group ≤10 years (9.3%) and the lowest in 21-30 year group (2.9%). The prevalence rate was significantly (P<0.001) higher in native residents (4.1%) than in non _ natives (1.1%). Most of the lesions were on the face (47%), and hands (34%). The majority (78%) had one lesion. Most of the cases had occurred during 2006. PCR technique revealed all 26 examined cases as Leishmania tropica. Conclusion: All the cases have occurred after the earthquake and simultaneously with epidemic condition in the city of Bam. Traveling from endemic areas of Bam to this locality could be the main factor for establishment of this new ACL focus.