Abstract
Abstract Background: Cutaneous Leishmaniasis (CL) is a disease transmitted by infected sandflies in tropical and subtropical areas of the world. Over 12 million people are infected with CL, with 90% of cases occurring in Afghanistan, Iran, Algeria, Brazil, Peru, Saudi Arabia, Syria, and Libya. CL causes localized skin lesions that may disappear without treatment or persist, causing severe tissue damage, permanent disfigurement, and serious disability. Physical methods such as cryotherapy, heat therapy, photodynamic therapy, laser, and radiofrequency have shown promising results in treating CL. However, none of the suggested treatments are universally effective, and many of them are associated with serious local and systemic side effects. Early diagnosis and treatment can cure the disease, prevent psychological impact, and help in the prevention of transmission. Different therapeutic modalities (monotherapy or combined therapy) were used in patient treatment, with different approaches planned according to the severity and duration of the condition. Patients and methods: The study was conducted on 60 Patients who were divided into three groups: 20 patients treated with dapsone tab 100mg once daily for one month and 20 with radiofrequency, the third group, 20 Patients were treated with a combination of dapsone tab 100mg and radiofrequency. Treatment sessions were scheduled 1 session every 2 weeks. Statistical analysis was carried out using SPSS software version 18 (USA). Results and Discussion: Patients underwent weekly physical exams to evaluate clinical response and adverse effects. Clinical response was classified as complete, good, or poor. Data were analyzed using one-way NOVA, Turkey's test, chisquare test, ANOVA, and Fischer's exact test. There was no significant difference among studied groups regarding demographic data. Patients treated with dapsone and radiofrequency were significantly more cleared in 1-2 months than those treated with radiofrequency alone. Conclusion: Patients had weekly physical exams to evaluate the clinical response and adverse effects. Clinical response was classified as complete, good, or poor. Data was analyzed using various tests. Dapsone and radiofrequency-treated patients cleared more in 1-2 months. Keywords: Cutaneous leishmaniasis; Dapsone; Radiofrequency; Aalgabal algarby; Libya