Cutaneous leishmaniasis in Bolivia. A study of 185 human cases from Alto Beni (La Paz Department). Isolation and isoenzyme characterization of 26 strains of Leismania brasiliensis brasiliensis

Abstract

Abstract A clinical, serological, parasitological and therapeutic study of cutaneous leishmaniasis was carried out in a low sub-andean area (250-800 metres) of the La Paz Department, Bolivia. A team of seismic prospectors (350 workers) was surveyed for 12 months. Of 200 suspected cases of cutaneous leishmaniasis, 185 were serologically or parasitologically confumed (incidence 52'8V"). Those exposed to the greatest risk of infection were working in a virgin forest environment. Leishmanial organisms were isolated from 26 of the workers, either by in aito cultivation or inoculation into hamsters. Isoenzyme characterization of the organisms by cellulose acetate electrophoresis showed üem to be Leisbrunia brasili¿nsis brasiliensis. The results of treatrnent of 168 patients with a pentavalent antimonial drug are also reported.