Intralesional Streptomycin: New, Safe, and Effective Therapeutic Option for Cutaneous Leishmaniasis

Abstract

Background: Leishmaniasis encompasses a spectrum of chronic infections in humans in which organisms are found within phagolysosomesof mononuclear phagocytes. Cutaneous leishmaniasis is divided into Old World and New World cutaneous leishmaniasis caused by Leishmaniatropica. Aminoglycosides as it antibacterial, were also tried as a new therapeutic option for parasitic infestation. Proliferation rate and proteinsynthesis in the promastigote stage of the parasite are inhibited by aminoglycoside such as streptomycin. Aim: The aim of this study is to estimatethe effectiveness of intralesional streptomycin as a new antileishmanial agent. Settings and Design: This was a therapeutic trial with controls.Materials and Methods: Sixty three lesions (57.8%) from a total of 109 lesions were treated with intralesional injection of streptomycin afterdilution with distilled water (20%) and 46 lesions (42.2%) were used as a control. Statistical Analysis: Statistical Analysis System programand Chi‑square test were used. Results: In Group A, clinical cure was achieved in 40 lesions (83.3%). Moderate response was noticed in 8lesions (16.7%). In Group B, none of the remaining 39 control lesions shows moderate, marked or total clearance degree of response. Only3 lesions (7.7%) showed a slight degree of response and 1 lesion (2.7%) with mild degree. Conclusion: Intralesional streptomycin solution20% can be considered as a new effective therapeutic option for cutaneous leishmaniasis