Using thermotherapy at health centers to treat skin leishmaniasis in Ethiopia

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This project investigates the feasibility of delivering thermotherapy for cutaneous leishmaniasis within primary health care facilities in the Sodo and South Sodo districts of Ethiopia. It uses a phased approach to develop staff training, pilot the intervention, and assess feasibility, acceptability, and appropriateness, with a comparison group at centers that do not currently offer thermotherapy. Participants with CL lesions receive a ThermoMed treatment (50°C for 30 seconds) and are followed for up to 90 days to monitor response. Enrollment targets up to 20 CL patients in the pilot phase, with ongoing monitoring and process evaluation to inform scalability. The study emphasizes integration into existing PHC workflows and resource considerations within the local health system.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* Males and females aged ≥12 and ≤60 years old.
* Patient has a lesion that satisfies the following criteria:

  * Lesion size \< or = 4 cm (longest diameter).
  * Not located adjacent to ear, nose, eyes, lips, or close to mucosal membranes.
  * Patient with \< or = 4 CL lesions
* Patient able to give written informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Any condition that prevents the patient from following the study treatment and/or the follow-up

Where it's running

• CDT-Africa
  Addis Ababa, Ethiopia Recruiting

Study contacts

• Study coordinator: Dawit Ejigu, MD, MSc
• Email: dawit.a.ejigu@gmail.com
• Phone: +251911405540

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.