A Study of the Clinico-Bacteriology and Antibiotic Sensitivity Profile of Plantar Ulcers in Leprosy

Introduction: Leprosy is a chronic granulomatous disease with widespread involvement of the body including peripheral nerves. Chronic ulcers are among the most dreaded complications of leprosy with high bacterial load resulting in delayed wound healing.The ulcers are recurrent, which increase the physical disability and mortality due to leprosy. The secondary bacterial infection in the plantar ulcers and antimicrobial profile in leprosy can vary from region to region hence this study is essential to identify the organisms and to deliver appropriate and adequate treatment. Aims and objective: To identify the organism from the leprosy ulcer isolates and its antibiotic sensitivity profile. Materials and Methods: Data will be collected from 30 diagnosed Hansen’s patients.A detailed history and clinical examination will be carried out.Demographic data of the subjects shall be obtained with respect to age, sex, disease duration and activity, history of deformities and type of leprosy. Clinical evaluation will be performed to gain information about extent and severity of ulcer such as size and depth of ulcer, discharge and extent of cellulitis.The organism isolated is noted along with the antibiotic sensitivity pattern. Results: 30 culture and sensitivity tests from leprosy afflicted plantar ulcers revealed a majority of the ulcers harbouring organisms such as staphylococcus, enterococcus and methicillin resistant staphylococcus variety. A proportion of the wounds showed mixed infection with two or more organisms.Ulcers often affect the quality of life of patients suffering from leprosy where the productivity of life is observed to be hampered. This study would enable us to manage leprosy ulcers better with appropriate antibiotics.