Trends in Post-Kala-Azar Dermal Leishmaniasis in Sudan: Cases, Ethnic Distribution, and Recovery

Post-kala-azar dermal leishmaniasis (PKDL) is a neglected tropical disease that can develop after treatment of leishmaniasis. It causes significant health risks and serves as a reservoir, perpetuating transmission. Current information on PKDL characteristics is crucial for effective disease management and control. This study aimed to describe clinical and epidemiological characteristics of PKDL patients in eastern Sudan. A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted on suspected PKDL patients (N = 37) at a tertiary hospital in eastern Sudan. Blood samples were tested for anti-rK39 antibodies to confirm the diagnosis of the disease. Demographic, clinical, and epidemiological data of the PKDL patients were gathered and analyzed. Most PKDL cases (69.4%) came from specific locations involving one ethnic group (94.6%), mainly affecting young males (54.1%). A family history of PKDL was noted in only 27.0% of cases; 51.4% developed PKDL within 1 month after visceral leishmaniasis (VL) treatment. Most cases (56.8%) were grade 1 (a low level of parasitic load), predominantly featuring macular (51.4%), papular (18.9%), and nodular (13.5%) lesions. All patients had skin rashes; 91.9% exhibited no fever, and 29.7% reported itching. Lesions appeared within a month after VL treatment, with most patients recovering spontaneously within 3–18 months. PKDL was particularly prevalent in specific regions and ethnic groups, namely the Masaleet and Dago tribes. These findings can enhance PKDL understanding and management in the region.