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Primary neural leprosy: systematic review
José Antonio Garbino1, Wilson Marques, Jaison Antonio Barreto
1Instituto Lauro de Souza Lima, Secretaria de Estado de Saúde, São Paulo,SP, Brazil. garbino.blv@terra.com.br
Arquivos De Neuro-Psiquiatria
|July 6, 2013
Summary
This systematic review examines primary neural leprosy diagnosis and treatment. It synthesizes evidence on clinical, laboratory, and molecular investigations, alongside treatment protocols for leprosy.
Area of Science:
- Medical microbiology
- Infectious diseases
- Neurology
Background:
- Leprosy remains a significant global health challenge, particularly its neurological manifestations.
- Primary neural leprosy presents diagnostic and therapeutic complexities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct a systematic review of current concepts in primary neural leprosy.
- To evaluate diagnostic and treatment strategies based on scientific evidence.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature search of MEDLINE, Lilacs/SciELO, and Embase databases.
- Classification of studies by evidence levels (Oxford Centre for Evidence-based Medicine).
- Review of cutaneous, neurological, serological, and molecular investigations, and treatment protocols.
Main Results:
- Comprehensive review of diagnostic methods including skin examinations, biopsies, smears, Mitsuda's reaction, electromyography, and nerve biopsies.
- Evaluation of serological tests (e.g., phenolic glycolipid 1 antibody detection) and molecular methods (e.g., polymerase chain reaction).
- Analysis of treatment criteria, including steroid therapy and cure assessment.
Conclusions:
- The review provides an evidence-based overview of primary neural leprosy.
- Highlights the importance of integrated diagnostic approaches and standardized treatment guidelines.
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