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Primary dapsone-resistant leprosy in Cebu, Philippines

R S Guinto, R V Cellona, T T Fajardo

    International Journal of Leprosy and Other Mycobacterial Diseases : Official Organ of the International Leprosy Association
    |December 1, 1981
    PubMed

    Insights

    A study in Cebu, Philippines, found primary dapsone-resistant leprosy in 3.6% of cases. Most Mycobacterium leprae strains remained susceptible to dapsone, but two showed resistance in mouse models.

    Area of Science:

    • Medical Microbiology
    • Tropical Medicine
    • Epidemiology

    Background:

    • Leprosy remains a significant public health concern globally.
    • Dapsone has been the cornerstone of multidrug therapy for leprosy.
    • Emergence of drug resistance can compromise treatment efficacy and disease control.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To determine the prevalence of primary dapsone resistance in leprosy patients in Cebu, Philippines.
    • To characterize the susceptibility of Mycobacterium leprae isolates to dapsone.

    Main Methods:

    • A survey was conducted to identify leprosy patients in Cebu.
    • Susceptibility testing was performed using mouse models inoculated with Mycobacterium leprae isolates.
    • Minimal effective dose and a 10-fold higher dose of dapsone were administered to mice.

    Main Results:

    • The prevalence of primary dapsone-resistant leprosy was estimated at 3.6 per 100 patients.
    • Out of 55 patients, 53 had Mycobacterium leprae fully susceptible to dapsone.
    • Mycobacterium leprae from two patients multiplied in mice receiving the minimal effective dapsone dose; one isolate also multiplied at a 10-fold higher dose.

    Conclusions:

    • Primary dapsone resistance in leprosy exists in Cebu, Philippines, at a notable prevalence.
    • While most isolates remain susceptible, the identification of resistant strains necessitates ongoing surveillance.
    • Further research is needed to understand the mechanisms and implications of dapsone resistance in leprosy.

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