Quetta

Researchers are evaluating whether a culturally adapted, multicomponent intervention can improve survival and rehabilitation outcomes for adults with accidental burn injuries in Pakistan. This study compares an integrated case management approach to enhanced usual care, aiming to enhance both physical and psychosocial rehabilitation for burn survivors and their families. The trial is conducted across six cities including Karachi, Hyderabad, Lahore, Rawalpindi, Peshawar, and Quetta, using a randomized, parallel group design. Participants in the intervention group receive integrated case management delivered by trained allied health professionals such as nurses, physiotherapists, and psychologists. This includes 8 sessions: six low-intensity sessions lasting 30-60 minutes each, delivered during hospital stay or in the community, and two 30-minute follow-up sessions after discharge to support transition and continued care. The control group receives usual emergency, surgical, and rehabilitation care plus brief written self-help advice. Participants will be assessed at baseline, then at 3, 6, and 12 months after the intervention. Researchers will measure outcomes including all-cause mortality, hospital readmissions, and health-related quality of life using a composite score. The study also monitors treatment adherence and cost-effectiveness over the 12-month follow-up period to understand the impact of the integrated care approach compared to standard care.

Researchers are evaluating new treatment options for cutaneous leishmaniasis caused by Leishmania tropica in Pakistan. This Phase 3 clinical trial compares the effectiveness, safety, and tolerability of miltefosine, thermotherapy, and their combination against the current standard treatment with antimonial injections. The study aims to find alternative therapies that are effective and easier to administer, especially for patients who cannot receive antimonial treatment due to health concerns. The study involves three treatment groups: oral miltefosine, thermotherapy, and a combination of both. Thermotherapy requires only a single treatment session and may cause less scarring, while miltefosine is an oral medication that can be given in local health facilities. Combining the two treatments may provide added benefits by targeting parasites more effectively and potentially shortening the treatment duration. Each participant will receive one of these treatments and be monitored for their response. Participants will be followed for 91 days to assess the initial clinical cure rate and record any adverse events. During the study, patients will have clinical and laboratory evaluations to confirm diagnosis and monitor progress. Researchers will collect data on treatment effectiveness and safety to determine if these new options are non-inferior to standard care. The total participation duration includes treatment and follow-up visits for up to three months.