Quantitative DNCB epicutaneous sensitization in leprosy patients and controls

Status of non-specific cell mediated immunity in 49 leprosy patients classified according to Ridley & Jopling scale and 16 non leprous controls was studied using epicutaneous sensitization with DNCB and quantitatively grading the degree of sensitization with DNCB and quantitatively grading the degree of sensitization and Mx. test with 1 TU PPD. The effect of dapsone administration on CMI responses was also observed. There was no gross depression of CMI responses as made out by epicutaneous sensitization to DNCB but quantitative grading of responses revealed a subtle depression of CMI responses progressively increasing from II to LL end of spectrum. Mx. testing with 1 Tu PPD did not appear to be a good parameter to study the CMI status. Dapsone administration did not alter the CMI responses.