Evaluation of Subclinical Cutaneous Leishmaniasis Using Leishmanin Skin Test in Keana North-Central Nigeria

Subclinical Cutaneous Leishmaniasis (SCL) was evaluated using the Leishmanin Skin Test (LST) in Keana, North-Central Nigeria. Fifty-three individuals were studied. Fifteen, 28.30% had lesions indicative of previous and active leishmaniasis, 9 (16.98%) had scars while 29(54.72%) had neither scars nor lesions. Lesions and scars were multiple and mostly found on the hind limbs. Mice inoculated with tissue from lesions sampled did not develop lesions. Results showed that 18(34.0%) of the subjects were LST positive with the prevalence higher in the females than the males (42.9% vs 24.0%). The LST positivity occurred with the highest frequency amongst individuals who had scars (44.5%). There was significant difference in the association between sex and the LST positivity (χ 2 = 2.11, df. = 1, P<0.05). Individuals of 41 – 50 years old had the highest LST positivity (42.9%). Results provide evidence of presence of Cuteneous Leishmaniasis in Keana and confirmed the effectiveness of LST in identifying of cuteneous leishmaniasis associated symptoms.

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