@article{103055,
  keywords = {leprosy relapse, leprosy},
  author = {Nazal MEBH and Sayo-Aguiling KJ and Abad-Venida ML},
  title = {Demographic profile, clinical features and treatment of patients diagnosed with leprosy relapse from a tertiary government hospital in Metro Manila: A 10-year retrospective study},
  abstract = {<p><strong>Introduction</strong></p>

<p>Leprosy, a chronic disease caused by&nbsp;Mycobacterium leprae, remains a public health concern in endemic areas, including Metro Manila, Philippines. Despite the effectiveness of multidrug therapy (MDT) in reducing global incidence, relapse continues to pose a challenge.</p>

<p><strong>Objectives</strong></p>

<p>This study profiles leprosy relapse cases diagnosed from January 2014 to December 2023 at the Hansen’s Disease clinic at a tertiary public hospital in Metro Manila, focusing on clinical and demographic data, treatment history, and bacterial index (BI) variations.</p>

<p><strong>Results</strong></p>

<p>Results detailed 36 patients with relapse, with a mean age of 43 years and a male predominance (83%). Most cases were classified as multibacillary (92%), aligning with global trends of relapse in patients with high pre-MDT BI. The average interval from initial treatment to relapse was 17 years, with most cases occurring between 10 and 20 years post-treatment. Relapse was notably prevalent among patients with irregular MDT adherence and high initial BI scores. Factors such as high initial BI, prolonged treatment periods, and dapsone monotherapy before 1988 were identified as potential relapse contributors.</p>

<p><strong>Conclusion</strong></p>

<p>This study highlights the necessity of robust follow-up and patient education on relapse recognition, particularly in endemic regions. Adherence to the MDT regimen is crucial in minimising relapse risk. Further investigation into relapse mechanisms is essential to optimise strategies for early detection, improved patient care, and ultimately advancing toward leprosy control and elimination.</p>
},
  year = {2025},
  journal = {Leprosy Review},
  volume = {96},
  pages = {1-12},
  publisher = {Lepra},
  issn = {2162-8807},
  url = {https://leprosyreview.org/article/96/4/20-25071},
  doi = {10.47276/lr.96.4.2025071},
  language = {ENG},
}