| Abstract: | Leprosy is a chronic infectious condition caused by Mycobacteriumleprae(M. leprae). It is endemic in many regions of the world and apublic health problem in Brazil. Additionally, it presents a wide spectrum ofclinical manifestations, which are dependent on the interaction between M.leprae and host, and are related to the degree of immunity to the bacillus. Thediagnosis of this disease is a clinical one. However, in some situationslaboratory exams are necessary to confirm the diagnosis of leprosy or classifyits clinical form. This article aims to update dermatologists on leprosy,through a review of complementary laboratory techniques that can be employed forthe diagnosis of leprosy, including Mitsuda intradermal reaction, skin smearmicroscopy, histopathology, serology, immunohistochemistry, polymerase chainreaction, imaging tests, electromyography, and blood tests. It also aims toexplain standard multidrug therapy regimens, the treatment of reactions andresistant cases, immunotherapy with bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine andchemoprophylaxis. |
