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DNA Fingerprinting of Mycobacterium leprae Strains Using Variable Number Tandem Repeat (VNTR) - Fragment Length Analysis (FLA)
Published on: July 15, 2011
Childhood leprosy in an endemic area
A Selvasekar1, J Geetha, K Nisha
1Branch of Epidemiology and Leprosy Control, Schieffelin Leprosy Research and Training Centre, Karigiri, Tamil Nadu, India.
Leprosy Review
|July 16, 1999
Summary
Leprosy incidence and severe cases rose with age in South Indian children. Early detection through surveys and managing household contacts are crucial for effective leprosy control.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric infectious diseases
- Dermatology
- Public health epidemiology
Background:
- Leprosy remains a significant public health concern, particularly in endemic regions.
- Childhood leprosy presents unique diagnostic and management challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze trends in childhood leprosy incidence and characteristics.
- To evaluate case detection methods and outcomes in a South Indian cohort.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 794 new leprosy cases in children (0-14 years).
- Data collected from 1990-1995 in Gudiyatham Taluk, South India.
- Inclusion of demographic, clinical, and contact history data.
Main Results:
- Leprosy incidence and proportion of multibacillary cases increased with age.
- Bacillary + tuberculoid leprosy was the most common type; over 80% presented with a single patch.
- Surveys were the primary detection method; nearly 30% had household contacts with leprosy.
- Reactions and relapses were frequently observed.
Conclusions:
- Childhood leprosy exhibits age-related incidence and severity patterns.
- Enhanced surveys and robust follow-up are vital for effective leprosy case detection and management.
- Understanding household contact transmission is key to prevention strategies.
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