Prevalence, clinical features and determinants of cutaneous leishmaniasis in central Ethiopia.

backgroundCutaneous Leishmaniasis (CL) represents the prevalent form of leishmaniasis affecting the most disadvantaged communities globally. It presents a notable public health concern, particularly in low and middle-income countries like Ethiopia. Numerous research efforts have addressed the problem of CL across Ethiopia, yet the central region, specifically the Kambata Zone, remained understudied. Consequently, this study aimed to investigate the prevalence, clinical features, and determinants of CL infection in the area.

methodsA community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in the Kambata Zone from February 1 to August 30, 2024, including participants of all ages and both sexes. Study participants were randomly selected, and data were collected using a pre-tested structured questionnaire. Clinical samples were obtained from individuals suspected of having cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) by aspirating ulcers or nodules, and the samples were examined using Giemsa-stained smear microscopy. Data were entered into Epi Info software and analyzed using SPSS version 25.0. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the data, while bivariate and multivariate logistic regression models were applied to identify factors associated with CL infection. Results are presented as adjusted odds ratios (AOR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI), and statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.

resultsAmong 306 participants, microscopic examination identified 45 cases of CL, yielding a prevalence of 14.7% (45/306) [95% CI: 10.94–18.48%]. Clinically, lesions most commonly affected the nose (26/45, 57.7%), with the majority of cases presenting two lesions (31/45, 68.8%), and 20/45 cases (44.4%) persisting for more than one year. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that being male (AOR = 4.32; 95% CI: 2.03–6.82; p < 0.03), age under 18 years (AOR = 3.32; 95% CI: 1.76–5.12; p < 0.02), rural residence (35/45; AOR = 2.64; 95% CI: 1.79–12.55; p < 0.01), a family history of CL (AOR = 4.65; 95% CI: 1.44–10.89; p < 0.01), and the presence of a household garden (AOR = 7.91; 95% CI: 1.25–19.97; p < 0.01) were statistically significant determinants of CL infection.

conclusionThe study revealed a higher prevalence of CL that demonstrates various clinical features in Ethiopia. Notably, the occurrence of the infection is linked with age, sex, rural residence, previous infection, and presence of a garden, implicating the importance of targeted preventive and control measures.

trial registrationNot applicable.