CLINICAL AND EPIDEMIOLOGICAL PROFILE OF PATIENTS DIAGNOSED WITH LEPROSY IN PARAÍBA STATE AND BRAZIL, 2008 - 2012

Abstract

Objective: To describe and compare the clinical-epidemiological profile of patients diagnosed with leprosy in Paraíba (PB) state and Brazil between 2008 and 2012. Material and Methods: This is an epidemiological, quantitative study, accomplished through the analysis of secondary data obtained from SINAN via DATASUS. The research variables corresponded to cases of leprosy reported in PB and Brazil during the defined period. The exploratory variables were: gender, skin color, education level, age group, clinical form, operational classification and therapeutic plan. Results: 207,831 cases of leprosy were reported in Brazil, of which 4,069 in PB. Male patients predominated (51.38%, 56.57%) in PB and Brazil, respectively; as well as brown color (54.67%, 51.58%); and incomplete elementary school (44.11%, 49.13%). The dimorphic form was the most prevalent condition (PB: 25%, Brazil: 36%), with the majority of the patients diagnosed with multibacillary leprosy (PB: 52.93%, Brazil: 62.04%). Polychemotherapy with 12 doses was the preferred therapy (52.29%, 61.53%). The highest incidences occurred in 2009, 23.28 cases / 100,000 inhabitants, in PB, and in 2008, in Brazil: 24.35 cases / 100,000 inhabitants. Also, in 2008, there was identified a higher incidence in children under 15 years of age in both locations. Conclusion: A similar clinical-epidemiological profile was found for both localities, with a reduction in the incidence of leprosy in the studied period. However, endemicity remains high and indicates the need for a strengthening of epidemiological control actions to fight this disease. Studies such as ours, which outline the clinical and epidemiological profile of the patients, allow for a more accurate reality-driven planning of strategies. DESCRIPTORS: Leprosy. Epidemiology. Health Profile.