Literature Review: Accuracy Of Diagnostic Tests For Leprosy

Leprosy comes from the bacterium Mycobacterium leprae attacking the skin and peripheral nerves. It triggers some serious symptoms and damage. It can also cause permanent disability if there is no proper treatment. Although the number of cases of leprosy has decreased since the use of multi-drug treatment, but accurate early diagnosis remains difficult. This research analyzes some diagnostic tests and their potential in detecting leprosy. This research is conducted by reviewing scientific articles from 30 online journals in 2019-2023. The findings show that the diagnostic test combines clinical, molecular, serological, and immune response methods for precise detection. PCR technique is effective in detecting M.leprae DNA with high sensitivity in active cases, especially the multibacillary (MB) type. The NDO-LID and PGL-I tests are accurate in the multibacillary (MB) type but not in the paucibacillary (PB). Skin biopsy has identified granulomas and M. leprae bacteria. There must be electrophysiological and ultrasonographic examinations in the detection of nerve damage. Molecular and serological techniques can also support the diagnosis