This protocol applies to patients with leprosy classified as paucibacillary (PB). The PB classification is based on the number of skin lesions present, evidence of nerve involvement, and the results of a slit-skin smear for bacilli. Accurate classification into PB or multibacillary (MB) is the key step that determines the treatment approach.
PB leprosy is managed with a combination antibiotic regimen recommended by current international guidelines. The protocol specifies the drugs and the duration of treatment for the PB classification. Full details — including the complete drug combination and treatment course — are in the structured protocol below.
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.
View source ↗