A 2-year study of liquid nitrogen therapy in cutaneous leishmaniasis.

BACKGROUND

Among the different modalities for treatment of cutaneous leishmaniasis, liquid nitrogen is considered an effective therapy with very mild side-effects.

METHODS

A study was conducted using liquid nitrogen topically for the treatment of cutaneous leishmaniasis in the King Hussain Medical Centre, Amman-Jordan. Among 468 patients of cutaneous leishmaniasis, 293 were treated with liquid nitrogen and the rest were treated with other known treatment modalities.

RESULTS

Of the patients treated with cryo surgery liquid nitrogen, 215 of 293 permitted appropriate follow-up; the clinical response was significant and effective. No systemic adverse effects were noted. Mild cutaneous complications were infrequent, and included hypopigmentation, hyperpigmentation, and scar formation.

CONCLUSIONS

From the results of this study, liquid nitrogen therapy may be considered an effective treatment for cutaneous leishmaniasis.