Mycobacterium ulcerans and diagnostic implication among patients attending general Hospital Potiskum, Yobe State, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Mycobacterium ulcerans is a slow-growing Mycobacterium that classically infects the skin and subcutaneous tissues, giving rise to indolent nonulcerated (nodules, plaques) and ulcerated lesion.
Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate the emergence of Mycobacterium ulcerans infection and diagnostic implication among patients attending general Hospital Potiskum, Yobe state.
Method: A case control study was conducted in Potiskum, Nigeria; and 200 clinically suspected BU cases were identified. Cases were confirmed with microscopy and culture using the WHO guidelines.
Results:
Two (1.0%) BU patients were detected among the 200 participants with skin lesions. The participants' ages ranged from 11 to 62 years, with 17 years being the median. Although no significant difference was observed between genders, the two (2) confirmed cases were males who rely mainly on river water for their daily domestic use. The risk factors examined such as sources of water supply, place of residence, outdoor activities and wearing of protective cloths did not strongly influence M. ulcerans infection (P>0.05).
Conclusion: This study confirmed the emergence of BU in Potiskum, Nigeria. Buruli ulcer should be included on the list of diseases to rule out in patients presenting with skin lesions in Potiskum and its environs.