Leprosy classification for use in control programs

Abstract

Some classifications of leprosy currently in use are reviewed and the difficulties of their application in field work are analysed. While the scientific value of these classifications is recognized in identifying precisely the clinical, bacteriological, histological and immunological aspects of the disease, an alternative simplified classification is suggested, to be used in control programmes. In this classification, clinical forms that require the same public health action are put together. Thus, clinical forms are reduced to three basic groups: the early lesions, contagious and non-contagious leprosy. The clinical and laboratory criteria which define each group are presented, as well as the correlation between this simplified classification and the classic one.