Leprosy - family screening

Early detection and treatment of new cases are essential to control leprosy and prevent deformities. The aim of the study was to identify new cases and possible sources of infection by screening household contacts. 323 household contacts of 194 index patients with leprosy were screened. Skin biopsy and slit skin smear examination were done when necessary. Thirteen (13) new cases were found over a period of 6 months. Four (4) had lepromatous leprosy. Ten (10) had tuberculoid leprosy and 9 had indeterminate type. Unilateral thickening of greater auricular nerve was the only feature found in 14 patients. Possible source of infection was detected in only 4 families.

This study emphasizes the importance of family screening to detect new cases and the need to extend contact tracing beyond the family to identify the source of infection.