Clinical diagnosis of leprosy cases

The principle of leprosy control is based on secondary prevention with early detection of all cases and treatment with multidrug therapy. Eradication of leprosy warrants detection of all cases. Hence diagnosis of leprosy is of paramount importance to eradicate the cases. History taking gives all important information about the patient. Presenting complaint and contacts in family give useful guidelines to clinicians to arrive at the diagnosis. The objective of clinical examination is to elicit cardinal signs of leprosy through a systemic examination. Sensory testing, examination of nerves and examination of hands, feet and eyes are helpful in establishing diagnosis. Laboratory examination is not essential. Slit-skin smear examination for acid-fast bacilli shows positive results in a few cases. Diagnosis is complete once the clinical signs are established through clinical examination.