Screening for diabetes mellitus in leprosy patients with complicated ulcers

All patients admitted to an ulcer ward in a leprosy hospital over the period of one year were screened for glycosuria. Out of 154 patients screened 4 showed glycosuria. These 4 patients had more severely complicated ulcers evidenced by their longer duration of admission. Early diagnosis and treatment of diabetes in leprosy patients with complicated ulcers is important.