AMERICAN TEGUMENTARY LEISHMANIASIS IN BRAZIL: ANALYSIS FROM 2010 TO 2019

Abstract

American Tegumentary Leishmaniasis (ATL) is a neglected tropical zoonosis, caused by protozoa of the genus Leishmania and transmitted through sand fly bites. The main manifestation of the disease is the presence of cutaneous and mucosal lesions, responsible for the development of deformities, which trigger social stigma and suffering in affected individuals. Therefore, this study aims to analyze the epidemiology of ATL in Brazil, between 2010 and 2019. An observational, retrospective and cross-sectional study was carried out through the survey of secondary data on Notifiable Diseases and Conditions (SINAN), carried out in the Department of Informatics of the Unified Health System (DATASUS). In the period analyzed, 202.652 cases were registered in Brazil, distributed throughout the national territory, of which 72,8% occurred in males and 39,2% exclusively from 20 to 39 years old. The occurrence of LTA distributed throughout the country, mainly in an autochthonous way, demonstrates the adaptation of the parasites and the vector. It is believed that men are more affected due to greater exposure, especially occupational. Given the above, it is evident that ATL is still a disease present throughout the Brazilian territory and should always be considered as a diagnostic hypothesis in the presence of compatible lesions and when there is a positive epidemiological history. In addition, it is necessary to create awareness campaigns about the risk factors and clinical manifestations of the disease, especially for men, in order to facilitate early diagnosis and treatment, reducing the transmissibility and occurrence of deformities.