ECOEPIDEMIOLOGIA DA LEISHMANIOSE TEGUMENTAR AMERICANA NO PERÍODO DE 2007A 2016 NA REGIÃO TOCANTINA

Abstract

The Tegumentary Leishmaniasis Americana is one of the most important skin affections in Brazil, not only for the high frequency, but also by causing anatomical deformities. This study aimed to analyze the eco-epidemiological profile of Tegumentary Leishmaniasis Americana (TLA) in the region of Tocantina, in the period between 2007 to 2016. This region belongs to the administrative area of the State of Maranhão, in the Northeast of Brazil, and is located in the extreme west of the State. This is a descriptive epidemiological study that used a quantitative approach. Reported cases of TLA were registered in the region of Tocantina in the period of 2007 to 2016. The study population comprised 100% of the reported cases of Tegumentary Leishmaniasis Americana. The results showed that there was a decrease in the number of cases during this period, and that 2016 presented with the lowest number of reported cases. The municipalities most affected were Imperatriz and Itinga do Maranhão. The demographic profile of the TLA cases consisted of brown male subjects with low educational level and age between 30 to 59 years. Concerned to the type of input and the clinical form registered, the cases were classified as new cases, with a few cases of recurrence. As regards to epidemiological classification, it was observed that the cases were imported, since the infection occurred outside the area of residence of the affected subjects. With respect to the diagnosis, in most cases it was achieved through direct parasitological examination. However, it was possible to note that in a significant number of cases this exam was not completed, as well as the Montenegro Intradermoreação (MIDR) and the histological analysis. In relation to the evolution of the TLA cases, the cure was notified, and the death cases were related to other causes. Based on the results, it was possible to conclude that the cases of LTA are under-reported in the studied region, and that failure in diagnosis, prevention and control of the disease are observed, requiring more attention from the health managers, since the region is highly endemic.