Evaluation of Antibacterial Soap for Treatment of Lymphedema in a Filariasis-Endemic Area
Status:
Completed
Trial end date:
2002-03-01
Target enrollment:
Participant gender:
Summary
Introduction. Lymphatic filariasis is a devastating mosquito-transmitted parasitic disease
that causes lymphedema or elephantiasis of the leg in 15 million persons, the majority of
whom are women. In these persons, frequent bacterial infections ("acute attacks") of the legs
adversely affect physical health, economic well-being, and quality of life. Prevention of
bacterial infections through hygiene and skin care can result in significant improvements in
lymphedema and patient well-being.
Methods. To determine the extent to which antibacterial soap can help reduce the incidence of
acute bacterial infections of the lower limbs in persons with filarial lymphedema, 200
patients of the Ste. Croix Hospital lymphedema treatment clinic in Leogane, Haiti randomly
assigned to receive either antibacterial (Safeguard) or placebo (Camay) soap and acute
attacks monitored monthly for 12 months. Both groups received specific instructions on
washing and skin care.
Phase:
N/A
Details
Lead Sponsor:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Collaborators:
Procter and Gamble Ste. Croix Hospital, Leogane, Haiti