Leprosy: demographic and clinical characteristics of patients of endemic area in Amazon Region

Abstract

Introduction: The hyperendemicity of leprosy in the northern region permeates regional aspects, including its large territorial extension and waterways, which make it difficult to access health and, consequently, control the disease. So that, the objective of this project is to describe the demographic and clinical profile of patients with leprosy and to evaluate their intradomiciliary contacts. Methods and findings: Observational, descriptive study, type of case series, through interview and complementary analysis of the medical records of patients undergoing specific treatment and / or treatment of leprosy reactions followed at the Dermatology outpatient clinic of the University of the State of Pará, in the city of Belém-PA, from January 2015 to December 2017. With convenience sampling, we interviewed 83 patients that met the inclusion criteria and collected socioeconomic and demographic variables, as well as clinical aspects based on the Madrid classification. Descriptive and inferential statistical methods were applied as: tables, graphs and statistical measures of position and Test G, with alpha significance = 0,05 and reliability of 95%. The predominance of males was observed (60.24%), the most affected age group was between 30 and 44 years old and the majority with incomplete secondary education. The predominant family income was up to 1 minimum wage. The most frequent clinical type was Virchowian (38 patients). Most of the patients did not present leprosy reaction and those who presented, the type 1 reaction was the most frequent and the nerve most affected was ulnar. Conclusion: Prevalence of multibacillary cases is a reflex of late diagnosis. It is important that there be intensification of actions and monitoring and active search for new cases.