Quality of life in patients with cutaneous leishmaniasis

Introduction: Cutaneous Leishmaniasis (CL) is characterized by papules, nodules or ulcers that most often leave permanent scars in exposed areas of body. This condition can have a severe effect on the quality of life in these patients. This study aims to examine the quality of life in patients with CL. Methods: This cross-sectional study evaluated 120 patients (52 males and 67 females) between 16 to 80 years of age, with CL at Shiraz Valfajr health center, Shiraz, Iran. The Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) questionnaire was used for measuring the quality of life. Data on demographics and characteristics of the lesions were also collected. Results: The mean DLQI score was 11.7 with SD=7.15. The highest effect was observed in the realm of feelings, such as nervousness and feeling ashamed while the lowest effect was seen in the sexual relationship of patients. There was a significant difference in DLQI scores in patients with a high number of ulcerated lesions, especially if the ulcers or scars were on the face, than in other cases. Based on DLQI scores, lower quality of life was seen in CL patients. However, there was no significant difference in DLQI scores between men and women. In addition, no significant difference in DLQI scores were detected between other independent variables that were evaluated in this study. Conclusion: Cutaneous leishmaniasis significantly affects the quality of life in these patients.