01272nas a2200145   4500000000100000008004100001260001300042100001400055700001400069245004200083300001200125490000600137520096900143022001401112       2002                            d  c2002 May1 aNations S1 aBarohn RJ00aPeripheral Neuropathy Due to Leprosy.  a189-1960 v43 a<p>Leprosy, also known as Hansen's disease, remains a significant cause of disability worldwide. After the introduction of treatment regimens using a combination of dapsone, rifampin, and clofazimine, the prevalence of the disease declined from 5.4 million registered cases in 1985 to less than a million in 1999. However, the incidence of new cases has remained stable due at least in part to a population of asymptomatic carriers. Immune-mediated nerve damage can occur during treatment or after treatment is completed and mandates continued careful follow-up of patients. Patient education and rehabilitation are crucial aspects of disease management and prevention of disability. In the US, patient care and medications are available through regional clinics sponsored by the Department of Health and Human Services. Patients should contact the National Hansen's Disease Program at 1770 Physician's Park Drive, Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70816; 1-800-642-2477.</p>  a1092-8480