Incidence of Relapse and Post-Kala-Azar Dermal Leishmaniasis in South Sudan

A Prospective Cohort Study on the Incidence of Relapse and Post-Kala-Azar Dermal Leishmaniasis After Treatment for Primary Visceral Leishmaniasis in South Sudan

This study aims to describe the burden of Post-Kala-Azar Dermal Leishmaniasis and visceral leishmaniasis relapse in a cohort of patients discharged after successful treatment of primary visceral leishmaniasis.

This prospective, observational cohort study aims to describe the burden of Post-Kala-Azar Dermal Leishmaniasis and visceral leishmaniasis relapse in a cohort of patients discharged after successful treatment of primary visceral leishmaniasis from a hospital in Lankien, South Sudan.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Primary visceral leishmaniasis patients who had a confirmed (serological and/or parasitological) diagnosis at admission, and who were discharged after successful treatment
• Availability for follow up visits
• Provision of informed consent, and in the case of minors 12 to 17 years of age, assent as well

Exclusion Criteria:

• Unavailability for follow-up visits due to distance, inaccessibility, or refusal to participate
• Diagnosis of prior primary visceral leishmaniasis done only on clinical basis