The diagnosis of leprosy
The diagnosis of leprosy relies on both passive and active case-finding.
Clinical diagnosis.
This is achieved through observation of signs or symptoms of leprosy which includes;
· One or more pale or reddish, hypo-pigmented patch(es) on the skin with diminished or loss of sensation.
· Painless swelling or lumps in the face and/or earlobes.
· Enlarged and/or tender nerves.
· Burning sensation of the skin.
· Numbness or tingling of hands and/or feet.
· Weakness of eyelids, hands, and/or feet.
· Painless wounds or burns on the hands and/or feet.
Examination of other organs:
· Leprosy can affect a few organs other than skin and peripheral nerves.
· Depending on the duration of the disease and the spread of leprosy through the body, various other organs may show signs typical for leprosy
References
Wells BG, DiPiro J, Schwinghammer T (2013), Pharmacotherapy Handbook (6th Ed). New York, NY: McGraw-Hill.
DiPiro JT, Talbert RL, Yee GC, Matzke GR, Wells BG, Posey ML, (2008): Pharmacotherapy: A Pathophysiologic Approach (7th ed): New York, NY: McGraw-Hill.
Katz M D., Matthias KR., Chisholm-Burns M A., Pharmacotherapy(2011) Principles & Practice Study Guide: A Case-Based Care Plan Approach: New York, NY: McGraw-Hill.
Schwinghammer TL, Koehler JM (2009) Pharmacotherapy Casebook: A Patient-Focused Approach (7th ed): New York, NY: McGraw-Hill.