Drug resistance in leprosy - A review

Abstract

Drug resistance in leprosy has become a serious problem, and demands immediate action. Dapsone resistance was proved during the period 1964-66, the prevalence of dapsone resistance was only 2 per 1000. By 1976 it was apparent that dapsone resistance was a significant problem. As a result of further studies, not only is secondary dapsone resistance understood to be distributed worldwide, with rapidly increasing prevalence rates and alarming annual incidence rates in some areas; also primary dapsone resistance has been detected with unexpectedly high prevalence rates. Epidemiology and WHO-chemotherapy schemes are discussed.