Cutaneous Leishmaniasis: Endemic Regions and Epidemiological Characteristics of Cases Declared at University Hospital Center of Tlemcen, Algeria, 2012-2016

Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is a widespread parasitic disease and a public health problem worldwide. It is an endemic and notifiable disease in Algeria. Our objective was to know the epidemiological characteristics and to determine the endemic regions of the CL in the town of Tlemcen. A descriptive study was conducted with a prospective collection over five years, from 2012 to 2016, based on the systematic declaration of CL cases received from the various departments of the University Hospital center (UHC) of Tlemcen. Data entry and analysis was done by Epi-info 6 software. Thirty-four cases of cutaneous leishmaniasis, 27 of which are autochthonous were reported at the UHC of Tlemcen during 5 years with a female predominance; sex ratio (h/f): 0.79. The most affected age group was 40-50 years old. Six cases occurred in children under 16 years, 80% of the reports were received by the dermatology department. The highest peak was recorded in 2013; autumnal predominance was noted in 30% of cases. All patients lived or had been in endemic areas. Vector control campaigns must be reinforced to fight against leishmaniasis in the town of Tlemcen, also, the improvement of habitat conditions for populations at risk.