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 |
 |
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.