Journey of a patient with a reactional episode of leprosy in an endemic area of Brazil

Objectives

The study aimed to understand the journey of patients with reactional episodes of leprosy treated at a specialised outpatient clinic in the state of Mato Grosso, considered the most endemic state in the country.

Methods

Qualitative, descriptive, and exploratory study with 11 individuals who experienced reactional episodes. Data collection was carried out through audio-recorded interviews, guided by a semi-structured interview instrument, and the data were analysed using content analysis.

Results

The reports showed long journeys in time and space, marked by errors and delays in the diagnosis of both leprosy and its reactional episodes, reflecting the difficulty of health professionals in recognising the disease early.

Conclusion

Stigma and prejudice were factors that triggered complications and negative feelings about the patient and his life. The weaknesses in the healthcare network demonstrate the need to strengthen primary care, improve control actions, and establish effective care flows for these patients, preventing complications such as disabilities and physical deformities. Ongoing training of health professionals is essential to guarantee comprehensive care, as well as promoting early diagnosis, health education, autonomy, and emotional support for patients and their families.