Question
What are the necessary criteria that need to be fulfilled in order to initiate multidrug therapy (MDT) for leprosy?
- Hypopigmented patch with sensory loss
- Peripheral nerve thickening
- Peripheral nerve thickening with sensory loss
- Skin biopsy demonstrating bacilli
| A. |
1, 4
|
| B. |
1, 3
|
| C. |
1, 3, 4
|
| D. |
1, 2, 3, 4
|
Show Answer
|
Correct Answer » C
Explanation
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Cardinal Signs of Leprosy
Diagnosis of leprosy is made if one or more of the following cardinal signs are present:
- Hypopigmented or erythematous skin lesion with definite sensory loss
- Thickened peripheral nerve with sensory and/or motor deficit
- Demonstration of acid-fast bacilli in slit skin smear or biopsy
Why Statement 2 is Incorrect
Peripheral nerve thickening alone
- Nerve thickening without sensory or motor impairment is not sufficient for diagnosis.
- Functional deficit must be present.
