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Abnormalities in stratum corneum function in patients recovered from leprosy
S-P Song1, C-Z Lv, K R Feingold
1Dalian Skin Disease Hospital, Liaoning, PR China.
Skin Pharmacology and Physiology
|January 13, 2009
Summary
Skin barrier function abnormalities persist in cured leprosy patients, varying by disease subtype. Stratum corneum hydration is reduced, and skin surface pH is elevated in most cured individuals.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Infectious Diseases
- Epidermal Physiology
Background:
- Leprosy affects the skin and peripheral nervous system, often causing dry skin (xerosis) and sensory changes.
- These skin abnormalities can persist even after successful leprosy treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if stratum corneum (SC) function abnormalities persist in individuals cured of leprosy.
- To determine the relationship between epidermal functional abnormalities and specific leprosy subtypes.
Main Methods:
- Assessed 43 cured leprosy patients and 29 controls using a skin physiology monitor.
- Measured basal skin surface pH, SC hydration, and barrier function on previously affected skin sites.
- Employed ANOVA and t-tests for statistical analysis.
Main Results:
- All cured leprosy subtypes showed competent barrier function.
- Lower SC hydration was observed in all cured leprosy patients except the borderline tuberculoid type compared to controls.
- Elevated skin surface pH was a consistent finding across all cured leprosy subjects.
Conclusions:
- Persistent alterations in stratum corneum function are present in individuals cured of leprosy.
- The specific pattern of SC functional abnormalities differs among leprosy subtypes.
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