Two cases of cutaneous leishmaniasis in Dutch military personnel treated with oral miltefosine

Abstract

Introduction: In the Netherlands, cutaneous leishmaniasis is most commonly seen in military personnel deployed on a mission or training abroad. The treatment of two Dutch soldiers who acquired cutaneous leishmaniasis with oral miltefosine was evaluated. Adverse effects were monitored and the improvement of skin lesions was assessed.

Case reports: A military nurse with a painless Chiclero's ulcer due to Leishmania (Viannia) braziliensis acquired in Belize and a military physical training instructor with itchy swelling and small ulcer of the back of his left elbow due to L. donovani/infantum complex acquired in Ibiza were treated with oral miltefosine 50 mg three times a day for 28 days.

Discussion: Both patients responded well to oral miltefosine. Adverse effects were mild. Increase of creatinine levels was seen while liver transaminase levels were unremarkable.

Conclusions: Miltefosine proved to be a convenient, effective and well-tolerated treatment option in the treatment of cutaneous leishmaniasis in Dutch military personnel.

Keywords: TROPICAL MEDICINE.