Introduction:

leishmaniasis, a neglected tropical disease with a significant global impact, requires epidemiological research to improve its control and reduce mortality.

Objective:

to describe epidemiological trends and characteristics of reported human visceral leishmaniasis cases in Paraguay during the period 2018-2023.

Methodology:

we conducted a descriptive, retrospective observational study on cases of visceral leishmaniasis in Paraguay recorded between 2018 and 2023, as reported by health regions to the National Health Ministry’s Vector-transmitted Diseases Program . Data were analyzed using Epi Info 7.2.6.0 with descriptive statistics. Ethical principles, confidentiality, and anonymity were ensured in accordance with Paraguayan legislation. Informed consent was not required as secondary data were used.

Results:

a total of 293 visceral leishmaniasis cases were reported during the study period. The median age was 35 years, with a predominance of males (74.4%). An increasing trend in case notification was observed, with national incidence rising from 0.28 cases per 100,000 inhabitants in 2018 to 1.26 cases per 100,000 inhabitants in 2023. The Central Department accounted for the highest absolute number of cases (50.85%), whereas Cordillera Department showed the highest cumulative incidence (8.36 cases per 100,000 inhabitants). Luque, Capiatá, and Ñemby were the districts with the highest number of cases within the Central Department. HIV coinfection was recorded in 17.7% of cases; however, a high proportion of missing clinical data was identified. Among patients with available treatment information, deoxycholate amphotericin B was the most frequently used drug (66.9%).

Conclusion:

visceral leishmaniasis showed an increasing trend in Paraguay between 2018 and 2023, with heterogeneous distribution and greater concentration of cases in urban and peri-urban areas. These findings highlight the need to strengthen epidemiological surveillance, improve clinical data completeness, and ensure comprehensive prevention, diagnosis, and treatment strategies, particularly among vulnerable populations.

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