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

Abstract

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.