Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Purpose: To evaluate the spectrum and prevalence of ocular manifestations in patients with reactional states of Hansen's disease (leprosy) and to assess associated visual outcomes. Methods: A cross -sectional observational study was conducted on 45 patients with reactional leprosy at LLRM Medical College, Meerut. Ocular examinations included visual acuity, slit -lamp biomicroscopy, corneal sensation testing, ocular surface staining, and fundus evaluation. Results: Ocular manifestations were present in 66.7% of patients. The most affected structures included the cornea (80%), lens (50%), and adnexa (madarosis 56.6%). Patients who discontinued treatment showed the highest rates of blindness (11%) and severe visual impairment (18%). Complete adherence to multidrug therapy (MDT) correlated with preserved vision in all cases. Conclusion: Ocular involvement in leprosy is frequent and significantly impacts visual morbidity, particularly during reactional episodes. Early identification, interdisciplinary care, and sustained therapy are pivotal to preserving visual outcomes.
Authors: Priyalika Agarwal, Alka Gupta, Lokesh Kumar Singh, Jaishree Dwivedi, Amarjeet Singh
Language: English
Subfield: Infectious Diseases
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4410482808