Treatment of Leprosy Classified as Multibacillary (MB)

Clinical Scenario

This protocol addresses leprosy classified as multibacillary (MB) — determined by the number of skin lesions, the presence of nerve involvement, and the identification of bacilli on slit-skin smear.

Classification

Leprosy is classified as paucibacillary (PB) or multibacillary (MB) based on the number of skin lesions, presence of nerve involvement, and identification of bacilli on slit-skin smear. The MB classification carries specific therapeutic implications distinct from PB disease.

Treatment Approach

MB leprosy is managed with a multi-drug combination regimen. The complete protocol — covering all agents involved and the full treatment course — is available via the structured protocol below.

Instant Access to Structured Evidence-Based Regimens

References

Leprosy is classified as paucibacillary (PB) or multibacillary (MB), based on the number of skin lesions, presence of nerve involvement and identification of bacilli on slit-skin smear.

The guidelines recommend a 3-drug regimen of rifampicin, dapsone and clofazimine for all leprosy patients, with a duration of treatment of 6 months for PB leprosy and 12 months for MB leprosy.

The same 3-drug regimen of rifampicin, dapsone and clofazimine may be used for all leprosy patients, with a duration of treatment of 6 months for PB leprosy and of 12 months for MB leprosy.

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