Description
Why It’s Done:
The test is recommended to:
• Confirm leprosy diagnosis in suspected patients, especially when clinical signs are unclear or smear tests are negative.
• Detect early-stage or paucibacillary (low-bacteria) leprosy, which is difficult to identify using standard methods.
• Differentiate Mycobacterium leprae from other skin or nerve-related infections.
• Assist in monitoring treatment effectiveness and disease relapse.
• Support public health programs for leprosy elimination by identifying hidden or asymptomatic infections.
Preparation:
• No special preparation or fasting is required.
• A sample collection (usually skin biopsy or slit-skin smear) is performed by a healthcare professional using sterile techniques.
• Inform your doctor about any current medications or recent treatments, which may affect bacterial load.
