Inventory of skin smear practices in 6 leprosy control programmes in Nigeria.

A study of slit skin smear (SSS) examination practices in 6 Nigerian Leprosy Control Programmes was undertaken to assess the quality of smearing, staining and reading. Results indicated that the standard of SSS practices fall below the ideal. There is a great need for training as well as supervision and support of laboratory staff if this deplorable situation is to be improved.