Bedside urinalysis in untreated leprosy patients

Area of Science:

• Nephrology
• Infectious Diseases
• Dermatology

Background:

• Leprosy, a chronic infectious disease, can affect various organ systems.
• Urinary tract complications in leprosy patients are not well-documented.
• Understanding renal involvement is crucial for comprehensive patient management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the prevalence and types of urinary abnormalities in untreated leprosy patients.
• To correlate urinary findings with leprosy types and reactions.
• To assess the incidence of kidney inflammation (Glomerulonephritis) in leprosy patients.

Main Methods:

• Prospective study of 53 untreated leprosy patients at University Hospital, Banaras Hindu University.
• Clinical assessment including enquiry about urinary symptoms like dysuria.
• Urinalysis to detect proteinuria, haematuria, and pyuria.
• Renal biopsy in selected cases to diagnose specific types of Glomerulonephritis.

Main Results:

• Painful micturition (dysuria) was the most common urinary complaint (13.20%).
• Abnormal proteinuria was observed in 16.98% of patients with Type II reaction and decreased in other leprosy types.
• Significant haematuria and pyuria were noted across all leprosy groups.
• Renal biopsy revealed Focal Segmental Glomerulonephritis, Mesangioproliferative Glomerulonephritis, and Diffuse Endocapillary Glomerulonephritis.

Conclusions:

• Untreated leprosy is associated with significant urinary abnormalities and kidney inflammation.
• Urinary symptoms and findings like proteinuria and haematuria warrant further investigation in leprosy patients.
• Renal biopsy is valuable in diagnosing Glomerulonephritis in the context of leprosy.