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de Carvalho Dornelas B, da Costa WVT, de Abreu JPF, Daud JS, Campos FDAR, de Oliveira Campos DR, Antunes DE, de Araújo LB, Dos Santos DF, Soares CT, Goulart IMB. Role of histopathological, serological and molecular findings for the early diagnosis of treatment failure in leprosy. BMC Infect Dis 2024; 24:1085. [PMID: 39354399 PMCID: PMC11443919 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-024-09937-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2024] [Accepted: 09/16/2024] [Indexed: 10/03/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Treatment failure (TF) in leprosy following multidrug therapy (MDT) presents a significant challenge. The current World Health Organization (WHO) fixed-duration MDT regimen, based on lesion count, might not be adequate. Leprosy lacks clear-cut objective cure criteria, and the predictive value of post-MDT histopathological findings remains uncertain. This study aims to identify predictive factors for TF among leprosy patients who have completed the WHO-recommended MDT. METHODS An analysis was conducted on 80 individuals from a national leprosy reference center, comprising 40 TF cases (with a mean relapse at 13.0 months) and 40 controls (with a mean of 113.1 months without disease signs). Various epidemiological and clinical-laboratory parameters were assessed post-MDT. RESULTS In skin samples, the presence of foamy granuloma (OR = 7.36; 95%CI2.20-24.60; p = 0.0012) and histological bacillary index (hBI) ≥ 1+ (OR = 1.55; 95%CI1. 22-1.99; p = 0.0004) were significantly associated with TF, with odds ratios of 7.36 and 1.55, respectively. Individuals who experienced TF had a mean hBI of 3.02+ (SD ± 2.02), while the control group exhibited a mean hBI of 1.8+ (SD ± 1.88). An hBI ≥ 3 + showed a sensitivity of 73% and a specificity of 78% for TF detection (AUC: 0.75; p = 0.0001). Other histopathological features like epithelioid granulomas, and skin changes did not show significant associations (p > 0.05). Additionally, higher anti-phenolic glycolipid-I (anti-PGL-I) ELISA index (EI) levels were linked to a 1.4-fold increased likelihood for TF (OR = 1.4; 95%CI1.13-1.74; p = 0.0019). A mean EI of 4.48 (SD ± 2.80) was observed, with an EI ≥ 3.95 showing a sensitivity of 79% and a specificity of 59% for TF detection (AUC: 0.74; p = 0.0001). Moreover, the presence of Mycobacterium leprae (M. leprae) DNA in real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) was associated with a 3.43-fold higher likelihood of TF. Multivariate regression analysis indicated that concurrent presentation of neural/perineural lymphocytic infiltrate, foamy granuloma, hBI ≥ 1+, and EI ≥ 1 markedly increased the likelihood of TF by up to 95.41%. CONCLUSION Persistence of nerve-selective lymphocytic infiltrate, foamy granulomas, and bacilli in skin biopsies, and elevated EI post-MDT, may serve as predictive factors for identifying individuals at higher probability of TF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno de Carvalho Dornelas
- Pathology Unit, Hospital of Clinics, Federal University of Uberlândia, Brazilian Company for Hospital Services (HC-UFU/EBSERH), Uberlândia, MG, Brazil.
- Post-Graduation Program in Health Science, School of Medicine, Federal University of Uberlândia, Uberlândia, MG, Brazil.
- Unidade de Anatomia Patológica. Hospital de Clínicas de Uberlândia, Av. Pará, 1720 - Umuarama, Uberlândia, MG, 38405-320, Brazil.
| | | | - João Pablo Ferraz de Abreu
- Pathology Unit, Hospital of Clinics, Federal University of Uberlândia, Brazilian Company for Hospital Services (HC-UFU/EBSERH), Uberlândia, MG, Brazil
| | - Juliana Salomão Daud
- Pathology Unit, Hospital of Clinics, Federal University of Uberlândia, Brazilian Company for Hospital Services (HC-UFU/EBSERH), Uberlândia, MG, Brazil
| | | | - Deiriene Rodrigues de Oliveira Campos
- Pathology Unit, Hospital of Clinics, Federal University of Uberlândia, Brazilian Company for Hospital Services (HC-UFU/EBSERH), Uberlândia, MG, Brazil
| | - Douglas Eulálio Antunes
- National Reference Center for Leprosy/Dermatological Health (CREDESH), HC- UFU/EBSERH, Uberlândia, MG, Brazil
| | | | - Diogo Fernandes Dos Santos
- Post-Graduation Program in Health Science, School of Medicine, Federal University of Uberlândia, Uberlândia, MG, Brazil
- National Reference Center for Leprosy/Dermatological Health (CREDESH), HC- UFU/EBSERH, Uberlândia, MG, Brazil
| | | | - Isabela Maria Bernardes Goulart
- Post-Graduation Program in Health Science, School of Medicine, Federal University of Uberlândia, Uberlândia, MG, Brazil
- National Reference Center for Leprosy/Dermatological Health (CREDESH), HC- UFU/EBSERH, Uberlândia, MG, Brazil
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Thangaraju P, Velmurugan H, Venkatesan S. Antimicrobial Stewardship Program: Time to be Focused in Speciality Settings of Leprosy Institute and Related Health Care Setup. RECENT ADVANCES IN ANTI-INFECTIVE DRUG DISCOVERY 2024; 19:90-94. [PMID: 37070443 DOI: 10.2174/2772434418666230417114640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Revised: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/19/2023]
Abstract
Leprosy, often known as Hansen's disease is a contagious chronic infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium leprae (M. leprae). Our methodology is easily repeatable in tertiary care settings with diagnostic accuracy resources and staff capable of building a stewardship team. Comprehensive antimicrobial policies and programmes are required to properly alleviate the initial issue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pugazhenthan Thangaraju
- Department of Pharmacology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Raipur, 492099, Chhattisgarh, India
| | - Hemasri Velmurugan
- Department of Pharmacology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Raipur, 492099, Chhattisgarh, India
| | - Sajitha Venkatesan
- Department of Microbiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Raipur, 492099, Chhattisgarh, India
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de Araujo ACGDS, Hacker MDAVB, Pinheiro RO, Illarramendi X, Durães SMB, Nobre ML, Moraes MO, Sales AM, da Silva GMS. Development of a multivariate predictive model for dapsone adverse drug events in people with leprosy under standard WHO multidrug therapy. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2024; 18:e0011901. [PMID: 38271456 PMCID: PMC10846698 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0011901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The occurrence of adverse drug events (ADEs) during dapsone (DDS) treatment in patients with leprosy can constitute a significant barrier to the successful completion of the standardized therapeutic regimen for this disease. Well-known DDS-ADEs are hemolytic anemia, methemoglobinemia, hepatotoxicity, agranulocytosis, and hypersensitivity reactions. Identifying risk factors for ADEs before starting World Health Organization recommended standard multidrug therapy (WHO/MDT) can guide therapeutic planning for the patient. The objective of this study was to develop a predictive model for DDS-ADEs in patients with leprosy receiving standard WHO/MDT. METHODOLOGY This is a case-control study that involved the review of medical records of adult (≥18 years) patients registered at a Leprosy Reference Center in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The cohort included individuals that received standard WHO/MDT between January 2000 to December 2021. A prediction nomogram was developed by means of multivariable logistic regression (LR) using variables. The Hosmer-Lemeshow test was used to determine the model fit. Odds ratios (ORs) and their respective 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated. The predictive ability of the LRM was assessed by the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC). RESULTS A total of 329 medical records were assessed, comprising 120 cases and 209 controls. Based on the final LRM analysis, female sex (OR = 3.61; 95% CI: 2.03-6.59), multibacillary classification (OR = 2.5; 95% CI: 1.39-4.66), and higher education level (completed primary education) (OR = 1.97; 95% CI: 1.14-3.47) were considered factors to predict ADEs that caused standard WHO/MDT discontinuation. The prediction model developed had an AUC of 0.7208, that is 72% capable of predicting DDS-ADEs. CONCLUSION We propose a clinical model that could become a helpful tool for physicians in predicting ADEs in DDS-treated leprosy patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Roberta Olmo Pinheiro
- Oswaldo Cruz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (IOC/Fiocruz), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Ximena Illarramendi
- Oswaldo Cruz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (IOC/Fiocruz), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | | | - Maurício Lisboa Nobre
- Giselda Trigueiro Hospital, Rio Grande do Norte Federal State Public Health department (SESAP-RN), Natal, RN, Brazil
| | - Milton Ozório Moraes
- Oswaldo Cruz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (IOC/Fiocruz), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Anna Maria Sales
- Oswaldo Cruz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (IOC/Fiocruz), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
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Pfarr KM, Krome AK, Al-Obaidi I, Batchelor H, Vaillant M, Hoerauf A, Opoku NO, Kuesel AC. The pipeline for drugs for control and elimination of neglected tropical diseases: 2. Oral anti-infective drugs and drug combinations for off-label use. Parasit Vectors 2023; 16:394. [PMID: 37907954 PMCID: PMC10619278 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-023-05909-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023] Open
Abstract
In its 'Road map for neglected tropical diseases 2021-2030', the World Health Organization outlined its targets for control and elimination of neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) and research needed to achieve them. For many NTDs, this includes research for new treatment options for case management and/or preventive chemotherapy. Our review of small-molecule anti-infective drugs recently approved by a stringent regulatory authority (SRA) or in at least Phase 2 clinical development for regulatory approval showed that this pipeline cannot deliver all new treatments needed. WHO guidelines and country policies show that drugs may be recommended for control and elimination for NTDs for which they are not SRA approved (i.e. for 'off-label' use) if efficacy and safety data for the relevant NTD are considered sufficient by WHO and country authorities. Here, we are providing an overview of clinical research in the past 10 years evaluating the anti-infective efficacy of oral small-molecule drugs for NTD(s) for which they are neither SRA approved, nor included in current WHO strategies nor, considering the research sponsors, likely to be registered with a SRA for that NTD, if found to be effective and safe. No such research has been done for yaws, guinea worm, Trypanosoma brucei gambiense human African trypanosomiasis (HAT), rabies, trachoma, visceral leishmaniasis, mycetoma, T. b. rhodesiense HAT, echinococcosis, taeniasis/cysticercosis or scabies. Oral drugs evaluated include sparfloxacin and acedapsone for leprosy; rifampicin, rifapentin and moxifloxacin for onchocerciasis; imatinib and levamisole for loiasis; itraconazole, fluconazole, ketoconazole, posaconazole, ravuconazole and disulfiram for Chagas disease, doxycycline and rifampicin for lymphatic filariasis; arterolane, piperaquine, artesunate, artemether, lumefantrine and mefloquine for schistosomiasis; ivermectin, tribendimidine, pyrantel, oxantel and nitazoxanide for soil-transmitted helminths including strongyloidiasis; chloroquine, ivermectin, balapiravir, ribavirin, celgosivir, UV-4B, ivermectin and doxycycline for dengue; streptomycin, amoxicillin, clavulanate for Buruli ulcer; fluconazole and isavuconazonium for mycoses; clarithromycin and dapsone for cutaneous leishmaniasis; and tribendimidine, albendazole, mebendazole and nitazoxanide for foodborne trematodiasis. Additional paths to identification of new treatment options are needed. One promising path is exploitation of the worldwide experience with 'off-label' treatment of diseases with insufficient treatment options as pursued by the 'CURE ID' initiative.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth M Pfarr
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Bonn-Cologne, Bonn, Germany
| | - Anna K Krome
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Bonn-Cologne, Bonn, Germany
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmaceutics, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Issraa Al-Obaidi
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, UK
| | - Hannah Batchelor
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, UK
| | - Michel Vaillant
- Competence Center for Methodology and Statistics, Luxembourg Institute of Health, Strassen, Grand Duchy of Luxembourg
| | - Achim Hoerauf
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Bonn-Cologne, Bonn, Germany
| | - Nicholas O Opoku
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics School of Public Health, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Hohoe, Ghana
| | - Annette C Kuesel
- UNICEF/UNDP/World Bank/WHO Special Programme for Research and Training in Tropical Diseases (WHO/TDR), World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland.
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Huang J, Tong Y, Chen Y, Yang X, Wei X, Chen X, Li J, Li S. Highly sensitive and rapid determination of Mycobacterium leprae based on real-time multiple cross displacement amplification. BMC Microbiol 2023; 23:272. [PMID: 37770823 PMCID: PMC10537127 DOI: 10.1186/s12866-023-03004-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mycobacterium leprae (ML) is the pathogen that causes leprosy, which has a long history and still exists today. ML is an intracellular mycobacterium that dominantly induces leprosy by causing permanent damage to the skin, nerves, limbs and eyes as well as deformities and disabilities. Moreover, ML grows slowly and is nonculturable in vitro. Given the prevalence of leprosy, a highly sensitive and rapid method for the early diagnosis of leprosy is urgently needed. RESULTS In this study, we devised a novel tool for the diagnosis of leprosy by combining restriction endonuclease, real-time fluorescence analysis and multiple cross displacement amplification (E-RT-MCDA). To establish the system, primers for the target gene RLEP were designed, and the optimal conditions for E-RT-MCDA at 67 °C for 36 min were determined. Genomic DNA from ML, various pathogens and clinical samples was used to evaluate and optimize the E-RT-MCDA assay. The limit of detection (LoD) was 48.6 fg per vessel for pure ML genomic DNA, and the specificity of detection was as high as 100%. In addition, the detection process could be completed in 36 min by using a real-time monitor. CONCLUSION The E-RT-MCDA method devised in the current study is a reliable, sensitive and rapid technique for leprosy diagnosis and could be used as a potential tool in clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junfei Huang
- Laboratory of Infectious Disease of Experimental Center, Guizhou Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550004, People's Republic of China
| | - Yi Tong
- Laboratory of Infectious Disease of Experimental Center, Guizhou Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550004, People's Republic of China
| | - Yijiang Chen
- Laboratory of Infectious Disease of Experimental Center, Guizhou Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550004, People's Republic of China
| | - Xinggui Yang
- Laboratory of Infectious Disease of Experimental Center, Guizhou Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550004, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoyu Wei
- Laboratory of Infectious Disease of Experimental Center, Guizhou Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550004, People's Republic of China
| | - Xu Chen
- The Second Affiliated Hospital, Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550003, People's Republic of China
| | - Jinlan Li
- Tuberculosis Control Institute, Guizhou Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550004, People's Republic of China
| | - Shijun Li
- Laboratory of Infectious Disease of Experimental Center, Guizhou Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550004, People's Republic of China.
- School of Public Health, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550025, People's Republic of China.
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Petiot A, Drak Alsibai K, Dossou C, Couppie P, Blaizot R. Leprosy in French Guiana, 2015 to 2021: Dynamics of a Persistent Public Health Problem. Acta Derm Venereol 2023; 103:adv6246. [PMID: 37144514 PMCID: PMC10171089 DOI: 10.2340/actadv.v103.6246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023] Open
Abstract
A resurgence of leprosy as a public health problem in French Guiana was reported over the period 2007 to 2014, particularly among Brazilians gold miners. Prolonged multidrug therapy and reversal reactions represent a therapeutic challenge. The objective of this study was to assess the evolution of leprosy in this European overseas territory. All patients with leprosy confirmed in histopathology between 1 January 2015 and 31 December 2021 were included. A total of 86 patients were included, including 64 new cases and 22 previously diagnosed cases. Sixty patients (70%) were male, 6 cases were paediatric. Brazilian gold miners represented 44.1% of reported occupations (15/34). Maroons represented the second community (13 patients, 15%). Multibacillary and paucibacillary forms were found in 53 (71%) and 22 (29%) patients, respectively. The annual prevalence never exceeded the threshold of 1/10,000. The mean incidence and prevalence were significantly lower than during the period 2007 to 2014 (p < 0.0001). Reversal reactions were found in 29 patients and almost always required a long course of steroids. Infliximab allowed a reduction in the length of treatment with steroids in 2/2 cases. In conclusion, the prevalence of leprosy has decreased significantly in French Guiana, but remains driven by the population of illegal gold miners. Anti-tumour necrosis factor (anti-TNF) drugs represent a promising option in the management of reversal reactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aurore Petiot
- Dermatology Department, Cayenne Hospital Centre, Cayenne, French Guiana
| | - Kinan Drak Alsibai
- Histopathology and Cytology Department, Cayenne Hospital Centre, Cayenne, French Guiana
| | - Carmelita Dossou
- Dermatology Department, Cayenne Hospital Centre, Cayenne, French Guiana
| | - Pierre Couppie
- Dermatology Department, Cayenne Hospital Centre, Cayenne, French Guiana
| | - Romain Blaizot
- Dermatology Department, Cayenne Hospital Centre, Cayenne, French Guiana.
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Sugawara-Mikami M, Tanigawa K, Kawashima A, Kiriya M, Nakamura Y, Fujiwara Y, Suzuki K. Pathogenicity and virulence of Mycobacterium leprae. Virulence 2022; 13:1985-2011. [PMID: 36326715 PMCID: PMC9635560 DOI: 10.1080/21505594.2022.2141987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Leprosy is caused by Mycobacterium leprae (M. leprae) and M. lepromatosis, an obligate intracellular organism, and over 200,000 new cases occur every year. M. leprae parasitizes histiocytes (skin macrophages) and Schwann cells in the peripheral nerves. Although leprosy can be treated by multidrug therapy, some patients relapse or have a prolonged clinical course and/or experience leprosy reaction. These varying outcomes depend on host factors such as immune responses against bacterial components that determine a range of symptoms. To understand these host responses, knowledge of the mechanisms by which M. leprae parasitizes host cells is important. This article describes the characteristics of leprosy through bacteriology, genetics, epidemiology, immunology, animal models, routes of infection, and clinical findings. It also discusses recent diagnostic methods, treatment, and measures according to the World Health Organization (WHO), including prevention. Recently, the antibacterial activities of anti-hyperlipidaemia agents against other pathogens, such as M. tuberculosis and Staphylococcus aureus have been investigated. Our laboratory has been focused on the metabolism of lipids which constitute the cell wall of M. leprae. Our findings may be useful for the development of future treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariko Sugawara-Mikami
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Medical Technology, Teikyo University, Tokyo, Japan.,West Yokohama Sugawara Dermatology Clinic, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Kazunari Tanigawa
- Department of Molecular Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharma-Science, Teikyo University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Akira Kawashima
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Medical Technology, Teikyo University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Mitsuo Kiriya
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Medical Technology, Teikyo University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yasuhiro Nakamura
- Department of Molecular Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharma-Science, Teikyo University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoko Fujiwara
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Medical Technology, Teikyo University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Koichi Suzuki
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Medical Technology, Teikyo University, Tokyo, Japan
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Lemes MR, Rodrigues TCV, Jaiswal AK, Tiwari S, Sales-Campos H, Andrade-Silva LE, Oliveira CJF, Azevedo V, Rodrigues V, Soares SC, da Silva MV. In silico designing of a recombinant multi-epitope antigen for leprosy diagnosis. J Genet Eng Biotechnol 2022; 20:128. [PMID: 36053342 PMCID: PMC9440174 DOI: 10.1186/s43141-022-00411-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Leprosy is caused by Mycobacterium leprae and Mycobacterium lepromatosis. Most of the affected population lives in low-income countries and may take up to 10 years to show any clinical signs, which is how physicians diagnose it. However, due to progressive cell damage, early diagnosis is very important. The best way to confirm leprosy is through bacilloscopic, which only confirms the diagnosis and has low accuracy or PCR, that requires specialized operators and is expensive. Since the bacteria are fastidious and do not grow in any culture media, therefore, diagnosing leprosy in the lab is still a challenge. In this concern, a recombinant multi-epitope protein can be a beneficial strategy in the management of the diagnosis, as diverse immunogenic epitopes are precisely selected to detect specific antibodies. Therefore, the purposes of the present study were to select immunogenic epitopes from different relevant proteins, with immunogenic properties, and then to construct a recombinant multi-epitope protein that accuses the presence of the antibodies in the early stages of the disease, making it more than appropriate to be applied as a diagnostic tool. RESULTS We selected 22 common proteins from both species and, using bioinformatics tools, predicted B and T cell epitopes. After multiple filtering and analyzing, we ended up with 29 epitopes {MHC-I (total 18) and MHC-II (total 11)} from 10 proteins, which were then merged into one construct. Its secondary and tertiary structures were also predicted and refined to comprise the amino acid residues in the best conformation possible. The multi-epitope protein construct was stable, non-host homologous, non-allergic, non-toxic, and elicit humoral and cellular responses. It has conformational B cell epitopes and potential to elicit IFN-γ, IL-4, and IL-10 secretion. CONCLUSIONS This novel recombinant multi-epitope protein constructed using the common epitopes from M. leprae and M. lepromatosis has a huge immunological potential, is stable, and can be lyophilized to be used in ELISA plates or even in biosensors, which are user-friendly diagnosis tools, facilitating translation into human sample tests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcela Rezende Lemes
- Department of Immunology, Microbiology and Parasitology, Institute of Biological and Natural Sciences, Federal University of Triângulo Mineiro (UFTM), Uberaba, Minas Gerais, 38025-180, Brazil
| | - Thaís Cristina Vilela Rodrigues
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Genetics (LGCM) Department of Genetics, Ecology, and Evolution, Institute of Biological Sciences,, Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), MG, 31270-901, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Arun Kumar Jaiswal
- Department of Immunology, Microbiology and Parasitology, Institute of Biological and Natural Sciences, Federal University of Triângulo Mineiro (UFTM), Uberaba, Minas Gerais, 38025-180, Brazil
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Genetics (LGCM) Department of Genetics, Ecology, and Evolution, Institute of Biological Sciences,, Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), MG, 31270-901, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Sandeep Tiwari
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Genetics (LGCM) Department of Genetics, Ecology, and Evolution, Institute of Biological Sciences,, Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), MG, 31270-901, Belo Horizonte, Brazil.
| | - Helioswilton Sales-Campos
- Institute of Tropical Pathology and Public Health, Federal University of Goiás (UFG), Goiânia, Goiás, Brazil
| | - Leonardo Eurípedes Andrade-Silva
- Infectious Disease Department, Institute of Health Sciences, Federal University of Triângulo Mineiro (UFTM), Uberaba, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Carlo Jose Freire Oliveira
- Department of Immunology, Microbiology and Parasitology, Institute of Biological and Natural Sciences, Federal University of Triângulo Mineiro (UFTM), Uberaba, Minas Gerais, 38025-180, Brazil
| | - Vasco Azevedo
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Genetics (LGCM) Department of Genetics, Ecology, and Evolution, Institute of Biological Sciences,, Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), MG, 31270-901, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Virmondes Rodrigues
- Department of Immunology, Microbiology and Parasitology, Institute of Biological and Natural Sciences, Federal University of Triângulo Mineiro (UFTM), Uberaba, Minas Gerais, 38025-180, Brazil
| | - Siomar C Soares
- Department of Immunology, Microbiology and Parasitology, Institute of Biological and Natural Sciences, Federal University of Triângulo Mineiro (UFTM), Uberaba, Minas Gerais, 38025-180, Brazil
| | - Marcos Vinicius da Silva
- Department of Immunology, Microbiology and Parasitology, Institute of Biological and Natural Sciences, Federal University of Triângulo Mineiro (UFTM), Uberaba, Minas Gerais, 38025-180, Brazil.
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Schneider A, Trawinski H. [39-year-old patient with chronic skin ulcer at his left hand]. Dtsch Med Wochenschr 2022; 147:829-830. [PMID: 35785780 DOI: 10.1055/a-1818-7675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Anne Schneider
- Universitätsklinikum Leipzig, Klinik und Poliklinik für Onkologie, Gastroenterologie, Hepatologie, Pneumologie, Infektiologie, Bereich Infektions- und Tropenmedizin
| | - Henning Trawinski
- Universitätsklinikum Leipzig, Klinik und Poliklinik für Onkologie, Gastroenterologie, Hepatologie, Pneumologie, Infektiologie, Bereich Infektions- und Tropenmedizin
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Diagnostic Value of Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio, Lymphocyte-to-Monocyte Ratio, and Platelet-to-Lymphocyte Ratio in the Diagnosis of Erythema Nodosum Leprosum: A Retrospective Study. Trop Med Infect Dis 2022; 7:tropicalmed7030039. [PMID: 35324586 PMCID: PMC8951533 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed7030039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Revised: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 02/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Erythema nodosum leprosum (ENL) is an acute immune complex-mediated condition of the dermis, subcutaneous tissue, and other tissues seen in patients with multibacillary (MB) leprosy, causing severe impairment to patients’ quality of life. To date, there is no standard diagnostic criteria for ENL. We aimed to study the diagnostic value and accuracy of Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte ratio (NLR), Lymphocyte-to-Monocyte ratio (LMR), and Platelet-to-Lymphocyte ratio (PLR) in diagnosing ENL. This is an analytic retrospective study with a cross-sectional design that describes the distribution and clinical characteristics of all newly diagnosed MB patients of Dr. Soetomo General Hospital Surabaya in the years 2018–2020. NLR, LMR, and PLR were calculated for all patients, and a receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) was generated to identify the cut-off points. Among a total of 182 patients with MB leprosy, 22 cases (12.09%) were reported with ENL. WBC, neutrophils, monocytes, and thrombocytes showed a positive correlation with the incidence of ENL, but not lymphocytes. The NLR cut-off point for the diagnosis of ENL was 4.99 (sensitivity 86.4%, specificity 82.5%, accuracy 82.97), while that of PLR was 237.46 (sensitivity 63.6%, specificity 73.1%, accuracy 71.98%). LMR had poor sensitivity and specificity levels of 50% and 28.7%, with cut-off point of 2.28 and accuracy of 31.32%. These results suggest that NLR and PLR could be potential biomarkers for the diagnosis of ENL.
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Nuryanti Y, Faidiban RH, Sombuk H, Fabanjo IJ, Susantie NG, Sawaasemariay O, Suriani W, Mansa G. The Effectiveness of Interactive Patient Education on Adherence to Leprosy Medications in an Ambulatory Care Setting Indonesia: A Randomized Control Trial. Open Access Maced J Med Sci 2022. [DOI: 10.3889/oamjms.2022.7634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Poor treatment adherence has been linked to recurrence and the development of antibiotic resistance in leprosy patients. Previous research has shown that structured health education programs improve treatment adherence in other patients, but similar research in leprosy patients is lacking.
AIM: This study aimed to assess the effect of interactive patient education on adherence to leprosy medications in an ambulatory care setting in Indonesia.
METHODS: A randomized controlled trial (RCT) was conducted between January and April 2021. The research was conducted at a public health center in West Papua, Indonesia. This RCT employed 1:1 randomization to allocate participants to one of two groups. Eligibility criteria included those aged over 18 years old and diagnosed with leprosy at least 6 months. An interactive patient education program included four intervention steps that lasted 1 month, with four sessions lasting 60–90 min each week. The Morisky Medication Adherence Scale was used to assess medication adherence. The difference-in-differences technique was used to evaluate the variances between T0 and T1 and T0 for the intervention versus control groups (DID).
RESULTS: Approximately, 200 participants agreed to join in this study (response rate = 72.5%). An interactive patient education program improved outcomes relative to the control at T1; medication adherence increased 0.11 (95% CI 0.01–0.25). At T2, improved outcomes relative to the control were observed in medication adherence (DID coefficient 0.31 (95% CI 0.10–0.59).
CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrates that an interactive patient education program could effectively enhance medication adherence. Therefore, it is advised that health care professionals working with leprosy patients participate in the development of patient education programs and establish therapeutic partnerships with their patients.
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Verbenko DA, Solomka VS, Kozlova IV, Kubanov AA. The genetic determinants of Mycobacterium leprae resistance to antimicrobial drugs. VESTNIK DERMATOLOGII I VENEROLOGII 2021. [DOI: 10.25208/vdv1292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022] Open
Abstract
The review is devoted to the appearance of resistance of a slowly developing disease leprosy to antimicrobial therapy (AMP), primarily recommended by the World Health Organization. The main danger of drug resistant leprosy is in the difficulty of identifying, since the causative agent of the disease is not cultivated on artificial media, and the methods for diagnosing drug resistance that are currently used take a long time. The drug resistance of the Mycobacterium leprae strain even to individual components of combination drug therapy result to the development of symptoms of the disease despite undergo anti-leprosy therapy, which in turn can cause the patient to become disabled. Currently, in the Russian Federation, there is no approved test for detecting Mycobacterium leprae DNA, and the determination of genetic determinants of resistance is carried out by sequencing genome regions determined by WHO recommendations: small gyrA, folP and rpoB genes loci. At the same time, modern studies in endemic regions reveal an increased level of Mycobacterium leprae strains resistant to individual components of combined drug therapy. The use of next generation sequencing (NGS) has made it possible to identify additional genetic determinants of leprosy resistance to the components of combination drug therapy. The current situation is relevant to antimicrobal drug resistance surveillance by using of quick identification systems for most frequent genetic resistance determinants of Mycobacterium leprae.
The literature search was carried out using keywords in the Scopus, PubMed and RSCI databases.
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Bekala D, Reda DY, Ali MM. Acid-Fast Bacilli Positivity Rate and Associated Factors among Leprosy Suspected Cases attending Selected Health Facilities located in West Arsi Zone, Oromia, Ethiopia. Infect Drug Resist 2021; 14:4581-4589. [PMID: 34764655 PMCID: PMC8572740 DOI: 10.2147/idr.s339102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Leprosy is one of the neglected tropical diseases that affect skin and peripheral nervous system often results in severe, lifelong disabilities and deformities. Even though multidrug therapy was in place for more than 30 years to treat and prevent leprosy worldwide including Ethiopia, its epidemiology is not well studied in the West Arsi zone. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of acid-fast bacilli (AFB) positivity rate and associated factors among leprosy suspected cases. METHODS A health facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 422 leprosy suspected cases from August 2020 to December 2020. To detect AFB, skin slit specimens were collected and examined using the Ziehl-Neelsen staining technique. Socio-demographic and clinical data were collected using a structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 24. Logistic regression was employed to determine predictors of AFB positivity rate. RESULTS Acid-fast bacilli were detected among 46 leprosy suspected cases which gives a prevalence of 10.9% with 95% CI (8.2‒15.6). Suspected leprosy cases with multibacillary type were 4 times more likely to be AFB positive (p=0.021) than their counterparts. Study participants who had contact with known leprosy cases were 2 times more likely to be AFB positive (p = 0.032) and those with no formal education were 2 times more likely to be AFB positive (p = 0.03). Participants who had close contact with leprosy patients for ≥3 years were 8 times more likely to be AFB positive (p = 0.02). CONCLUSION This study revealed a high prevalence of AFB positivity rate in the era of multidrug therapy. Types of leprosy, close contact with known leprosy cases, educational status, and duration of closer contact with leprosy cases were significantly associated with AFB positivity rate.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Dawit Yihdego Reda
- School of Medical Laboratory, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Hawassa University, Hawassa, Ethiopia
| | - Musa Mohammed Ali
- School of Medical Laboratory, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Hawassa University, Hawassa, Ethiopia
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A 5-year evaluation of chemoprophylactic treatment in elementary school children with subclinical leprosy. Biomed Rep 2021; 15:88. [PMID: 34589216 DOI: 10.3892/br.2021.1464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2020] [Accepted: 06/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Subclinical leprosy is an infectious disease in which the immune system remains infected with Mycobacterium leprae (M. leprae). The progress of subclinical leprosy to clinical cases within 1 year of infection is 1.5%, with an increase to 6% in the following 4 years. Rifampicin is frequently used for prevention of leprosy, and clarithromycin has a bactericidal effect on M. leprae. Thus, the combination of both is expected to improve disease control in patients with subclinical leprosy. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the efficacy of a chemoprophylactic treatment involving rifampicin and clarithromycin against subclinical leprosy in elementary school children from endemic areas of East Java over a 5-year period. The study was performed between 2011 and 2015. Samples were collected from 2,548 healthy elementary school children in Nguling (Pasuruan) and Raas (Sumenep), and analysed using ELISA for anti-PGL (phenolic glycolipid)-1 IgM antibodies. Children who were seropositive for anti-PGL-1 IgM antibodies received a chemoprophylactic regimen consisting of rifampicin (300 mg/day) and clarithromycin (250 mg/day) daily for the initial 10 days, followed by the same regimen every 2 weeks for 3 months. Clinical and serological evaluations were performed annually for 5 years. Amongst the 2,548 healthy elementary school children, 200 were seropositive. The anti-PGL-1 IgM antibody levels significantly decreased between 2011 and 2015 in Nguling (from 1,066.7 to 137.4 U/ml) and Raas (from 773.1 to 563.4 U/ml), the levels decreased every year. In addition, the proportion of patients with decreased anti-PGL-1 IgM antibody levels was consistently higher than patients with increased anti-PGL-1 IgM antibody levels in all periods, except during 2013-2014, in Nguling and Raas. Chemoprophylactic treatment involving rifampicin and clarithromycin may thus be effective against subclinical leprosy amongst elementary school children.
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Abstract
Neuropathy and related disabilities are the major medical consequences of leprosy, which remains a global medical concern. Despite major advances in understanding the mechanisms of M. leprae entry into peripheral nerves, most aspects of the pathogenesis of leprosy neuropathy remain poorly understood. Sensory loss is characteristic of leprosy, but neuropathic pain is sometimes observed. Effective anti-microbial therapy is available, but neuropathy remains a problem especially if diagnosis and treatment are delayed. Currently there is intense interest in post-exposure prophylaxis with single-dose rifampin in endemic areas, as well as with enhanced prophylactic regimens in some situations. Some degree of nerve involvement is seen in all cases and neuritis may occur in the absence of leprosy reactions, but acute neuritis commonly accompanies both Type 1 and Type 2 leprosy reactions and may be difficult to manage. A variety of established as well as new methods for the early diagnosis and assessment of leprosy neuropathy are reviewed. Corticosteroids offer the primary treatment for neuritis and for subclinical neuropathy in leprosy, but success is limited if nerve function impairment is present at the time of diagnosis. A candidate vaccine has shown apparent benefit in preventing nerve injury in the armadillo model. The development of new therapeutics for leprosy neuropathy is greatly needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gigi J Ebenezer
- Neurology/Cutaneous Nerve Laboratory, Johns Hopkins University, The John G Rangos Bldg, room: 440, 855 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.
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Swain SS, Sahoo G, Mahapatra PK, Panda SK. Disease burden and current therapeutical status of leprosy with special emphasis on phytochemicals. Curr Top Med Chem 2021; 22:1611-1625. [PMID: 34503409 DOI: 10.2174/1568026621666210909162435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2021] [Revised: 08/05/2021] [Accepted: 08/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Leprosy (Hansen's disease) is a neglected tropical disease affecting millions of people globally. The combined formulations of dapsone, rifampicin and clofazimine (multidrug therapy, MDT) is only supportive in the early stage of detection, while "reemergence" is a significant problem. There is still a need to develop newer antileprosy molecules either of natural or (semi)synthetic origin. OBJECTIVE The review intends to present the latest developments in the disease prevalence, available therapeutic interventions and the possibility of identifying new molecules from phytoextracts. METHODS Literature on the use of plant extracts and their active components to treat leprosy was searched. Selected phytoconstituents were subjected to molecular docking study on both wild and mutant types of the Mycobacterium leprae. Since the M. leprae dihydropteroate synthase (DHPS) is not available in the protein data bank (PDB), it was modelled by the homology model method and validated with the Ramachandran plot along with other bioinformatics approaches. Two mutations were introduced at codons 53 (Thr to Ile) and 55 (Pro to Leu) for docking against twenty-five selected phytoconstituents reported from eight plants that recorded effective anti-leprosy activity. The chemical structure of phytochemicals and the standard dapsone structure were retrieved from the PubChem database and prepared accordingly for docking study with the virtual-screening platform of PyRx-AutoDock 4.1. RESULTS Based on the docking score (kcal/mol), most of the phytochemicals exhibited a higher docking score than dapsone. Asiaticoside, an active saponin (-11.3, -11.2 and -11.2 kcal/mol), was proved to be the lead phytochemical against both wild and mutant types DHPS. Some other useful phytoconstituents include echinocystic acid (-9.6, -9.5 and -9.5 kcal/mol), neobavaisoflavone (-9.2, -9.0 and -9.0 kcal/mol), boswellic acid (-8.90, -8.90 and -8.90 kcal/mol), asiatic acid (-8.9, -8.8 and -8.9 kcal/mol), corylifol A (-8.8, 8.0, and -8.0), etc. Overall, the computational predictions support the previously reported active phytoextracts of Centella asiatica (L.) Urban, Albizia amara (Roxb.) Boivin, Boswellia serrata Roxb. and Psoralea corylifolia L. to be effective against leprosy. CONCLUSION A very small percentage of well-known plants have been evaluated scientifically for antileprosy activity. Further in vivo experiments are essential to confirm anti-leprosy properties of such useful phytochemicals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shasank Sekhar Swain
- Division of Microbiology & NCDs, ICMR-Regional Medical Research Centre, Bhubaneswar-751023, Odisha. India
| | - Gunanidhi Sahoo
- Department of Zoology, Utkal University, Vani Vihar, Bhubaneswar-751004, Odisha. India
| | | | - Sujogya Kumar Panda
- Department of Zoology, Utkal University, Vani Vihar, Bhubaneswar-751004, Odisha. India
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Ksiaa I, Abroug N, Mahmoud A, Ben Amor H, Attia S, Khochtali S, Khairallah M. Hypopyon: Is-it Infective or Noninfective? Ocul Immunol Inflamm 2021; 29:817-829. [PMID: 34255602 DOI: 10.1080/09273948.2021.1922708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Hypopyon usually corresponds to the sedimentation of white blood cells, and it signifies severe intraocular inflammation. This key clinical sign may occur in association with a wide variety of infectious, inflammatory, and neoplastic conditions that may be sight- and, occasionally, life-threatening. A careful history and thorough clinical examination are the cornerstones for orienting the differential diagnosis, identifying the causative agent, and initiating prompt and appropriate treatment. This review outlines the clinical characteristics and management of hypopyon in relation with the underlying causative infectious or noninfectious ocular or systemic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Imen Ksiaa
- Department of Ophthalmology, Fattouma Bourguiba University Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, University of Monastir, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Nesrine Abroug
- Department of Ophthalmology, Fattouma Bourguiba University Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, University of Monastir, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Anis Mahmoud
- Department of Ophthalmology, Taher Sfar University Hospital of Mahdia, Faculty of Medicine, University of Monastir, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Hager Ben Amor
- Department of Ophthalmology, Fattouma Bourguiba University Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, University of Monastir, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Sonia Attia
- Department of Ophthalmology, Fattouma Bourguiba University Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, University of Monastir, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Sana Khochtali
- Department of Ophthalmology, Fattouma Bourguiba University Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, University of Monastir, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Moncef Khairallah
- Department of Ophthalmology, Fattouma Bourguiba University Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, University of Monastir, Monastir, Tunisia
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Chaves LL, Patriota Y, Soares-Sobrinho JL, Vieira ACC, Lima SAC, Reis S. Drug Delivery Systems on Leprosy Therapy: Moving Towards Eradication? Pharmaceutics 2020; 12:E1202. [PMID: 33322356 PMCID: PMC7763250 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics12121202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2020] [Revised: 11/28/2020] [Accepted: 12/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Leprosy disease remains an important public health issue as it is still endemic in several countries. Mycobacterium leprae, the causative agent of leprosy, presents tropism for cells of the reticuloendothelial and peripheral nervous system. Current multidrug therapy consists of clofazimine, dapsone and rifampicin. Despite significant improvements in leprosy treatment, in most programs, successful completion of the therapy is still sub-optimal. Drug resistance has emerged in some countries. This review discusses the status of leprosy disease worldwide, providing information regarding infectious agents, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, actual treatment and future perspectives and strategies on targets for an efficient targeted delivery therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luíse L. Chaves
- Laboratório Associado para a Química Verde, Rede de Química e Tecnologia, Departamento de Ciências Químicas, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade do Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; (A.C.C.V.); (S.A.C.L.)
- Núcleo de Controle de Qualidade de Medicamentos e Correlatos, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife 50740-521, Brazil; (Y.P.); (J.L.S.-S.)
| | - Yuri Patriota
- Núcleo de Controle de Qualidade de Medicamentos e Correlatos, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife 50740-521, Brazil; (Y.P.); (J.L.S.-S.)
| | - José L. Soares-Sobrinho
- Núcleo de Controle de Qualidade de Medicamentos e Correlatos, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife 50740-521, Brazil; (Y.P.); (J.L.S.-S.)
| | - Alexandre C. C. Vieira
- Laboratório Associado para a Química Verde, Rede de Química e Tecnologia, Departamento de Ciências Químicas, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade do Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; (A.C.C.V.); (S.A.C.L.)
- Laboratório de Tecnologia dos Medicamentos, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife 50740-521, Brazil
| | - Sofia A. Costa Lima
- Laboratório Associado para a Química Verde, Rede de Química e Tecnologia, Departamento de Ciências Químicas, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade do Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; (A.C.C.V.); (S.A.C.L.)
- Cooperativa de Ensino Superior Politécnico e Universitário, Instituto Universitário de Ciências da Saúde, 4585-116 Gandra, Portugal
| | - Salette Reis
- Laboratório Associado para a Química Verde, Rede de Química e Tecnologia, Departamento de Ciências Químicas, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade do Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; (A.C.C.V.); (S.A.C.L.)
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van Hooij A, Tió-Coma M, Verhard EM, Khatun M, Alam K, Tjon Kon Fat E, de Jong D, Sufian Chowdhury A, Corstjens P, Richardus JH, Geluk A. Household Contacts of Leprosy Patients in Endemic Areas Display a Specific Innate Immunity Profile. Front Immunol 2020; 11:1811. [PMID: 32849645 PMCID: PMC7431626 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.01811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2020] [Accepted: 07/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Leprosy is a chronic infectious disease, caused by Mycobacterium leprae, that can lead to severe life-long disabilities. The transmission of M. leprae is continuously ongoing as witnessed by the stable new case detection rate. The majority of exposed individuals does, however, not develop leprosy and is protected from infection by innate immune mechanisms. In this study the relation between innate immune markers and M. leprae infection as well as the occurrence of leprosy was studied in household contacts (HCs) of leprosy patients with high bacillary loads. Serum proteins associated with innate immunity (ApoA1, CCL4, CRP, IL-1Ra, IL-6, IP-10, and S100A12) were determined by lateral flow assays (LFAs) in conjunction with the presence of M. leprae DNA in nasal swabs (NS) and/or slit-skin smears (SSS). The HCs displayed ApoA1 and S100A12 levels similar to paucibacillary patients and could be differentiated from endemic controls based on the levels of these markers. In the 31 households included the number (percentage) of HCs that were concomitantly diagnosed with leprosy, or tested positive for M. leprae DNA in NS and SSS, was not equally divided. Specifically, households where M. leprae infection and leprosy disease was not observed amongst members of the household were characterized by higher S100A12 and lower CCL4 levels in whole blood assays of HCs in response to M. leprae. Lateral flow assays provide a convenient diagnostic tool to quantitatively measure markers of the innate immune response and thereby detect individuals which are likely infected with M. leprae and at risk of developing disease or transmitting bacteria. Low complexity diagnostic tests measuring innate immunity markers can therefore be applied to help identify who should be targeted for prophylactic treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anouk van Hooij
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Maria Tió-Coma
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Els M Verhard
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Marufa Khatun
- Rural Health Program, The Leprosy Mission International Bangladesh, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Khorshed Alam
- Rural Health Program, The Leprosy Mission International Bangladesh, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Elisa Tjon Kon Fat
- Department Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Danielle de Jong
- Department Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Abu Sufian Chowdhury
- Rural Health Program, The Leprosy Mission International Bangladesh, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Paul Corstjens
- Department Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Jan Hendrik Richardus
- Department of Public Health, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Annemieke Geluk
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
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