Comparative efficacy of intralesional sodium stibogluconate (SSG) alone and its combination with intramuscular SSG to treat localized cutaneous leishmaniasis: Results of a pilot study

Abstract

Background: Intralesional sodium stibogluconate (SSG) has become first line therapy for localized cutaneous leishmaniasis (LCL).

Aims: This study compares the efficacy of intralesional SSG given alone with that of intralesional SSG combined with intramuscular SSG.

Methods: Thirty-two patients aged between 5-56 years were included in the study. The first group received three injections of intralesional SSG on alternate days while the other group received three injections of intralesional SSG similar to the first group and the rest of the calculated dose as a simultaneous, intramuscular injection. Patients were followed up every four weeks to assess for cure/ the need for repeating the treatment.

Results: Five patients from group 1 having small nodular lesions of < six months duration were cured after 1-2 treatment cycles. However, six patients with mucosal lesions, large lesions and lesions of > six months duration needed 3-5 treatment schedules. Most plaques and mucosal lesions in seven patients in group 2 cleared with two treatment cycles.

Conclusion: Intralesional combined with intramuscular SSG appears more effective in LCL and gave qualitatively superior healing than intralesional SSG given alone.