Pradeep Addagadde Venkataramana1, Rajshekar2, Shruthi Amalagondhi Manjunatha3
BACKGROUND
Leprosy is a chronic granulomatous infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium
leprae. Several ocular manifestations occur before and during multi drug therapy
(MDT) and they can continue to occur even after the completion in
bacteriologically cured patients. Blindness is a catastrophic event that can occur
by several mechanisms at any stage. We need to learn and recognise the early
signs and symptoms of ocular complications, so that we can treat the patient early.
We need to evaluate the pattern of ocular manifestation in leprosy patients on
MDT (Multi Drug Therapy).
METHODS
A cross-sectional study was conducted over a duration of six months on diagnosed
cases of leprosy and those cured from leprosy. Data was collected by clinical
history with slit lamp examination, fundus examination, and laboratory
investigation.
RESULTS
Total 30 patients were included in the study in which 13 patients were on MDT, 7
newly detected cases and 10 treated cases. 22 were males and 8 were females
with male - female ratio of 2.75:1. Average age of presentation was 46 years with
range from 18 - 80 years. 56 % had ocular manifestations in this study. Ocular
lesions were more in cases who had leprosy for ≥ 16 years. Visual acuity ranged
from 6 / 6 to PL + ve. Lagophthalmos was noted in 4 cases, cataract in 6 cases,
exposure keratitis in 2, chalky white deposits on cornea in 2, spheroidal
degeneration in 2, iris atrophy in 2, and pterygium in 2 cases.
CONCLUSIONS
Patients who completed treatment for MDT require periodic monitoring to detect
ocular morbidity early and to prevent visual loss.
