Assessment of the quality of life of patients with cutaneous leishmaniasis in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, 2009-2010. A pilot study

Background Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) may manifest as single or multiple skin lesions, causing significant aesthetic impact and affecting the patient's quality of life (QoL). The objective of this study was to assess the impact of CL on the QoL. Methods The QoL of 20 patients with CL was assessed by the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI). Results For 70% of patients CL had a moderate/large impact on their QoL, with ???Work and School??? being the most affected domain. This is the first study to use the DLQI to assess the impact of CL. Conclusion CL has a moderate to large negative effect on QoL