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| Definition: |
A test to determine what type of leprosy a person has. It involves the injection of a standardized extract of inactivated leprosy-causing bacteria under the skin.
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| Alternative Names: |
Leprosy skin test
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| How the test is performed: |
An extract sample of inactivated leprosy-causing bacteria is injected just under the skin, usually on the forearm, so that a small lump pushes the skin up. The lump indicates that the antigen has been injected at the correct depth. The site is labeled and is examined (at 3 days and at 28 days to see if there is a reaction induration) at the site of the injection.
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| How to prepare for the test: |
People with dermatitis or other skin irritations should have the test performed on a part of the body which is not affected.
If your child needs to have this test performed, it may be helpful to explain how the test will feel, and even practice or demonstrate on a doll. The more familiar your child is with what will happen and why, the less anxiety he or she will feel.
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| How the test will feel: |
When the antigen is injected, there may be a slight stinging or burning sensation. There may also be mild itching at the site of injection afterwards.
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| Why the test is performed: |
Leprosy is a chronic and potentially disfiguring infection if left untreated, caused by a bacteria called Mycobacterium leprae. This test is a research tool which helps classify the different types of leprosy. It is not recommended as a primary mode of diagnosis.
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| Normal Values: |
People who don't have leprosy will have little or no skin reaction to antigen. Patients with some forms of leprosy (lepromatous leprosy) will also have no skin reaction to antigen.
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| What abnormal results mean: |
A positive skin reaction may be seen in patients with tuberculoid and borderline tuberculoid leprosy. Patients with lepromatous leprosy will not have a positive skin reaction.
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| What the risks are: |
There is an extremely small risk of an allergic reaction which may include itching and rarely hives.
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| Special considerations: |
This test is used primarily as a research tool and only helps in the classification of leprosy. It should not be used to establish a diagnosis of leprosy.
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Review Date: 8/17/2001
Reviewed By: Rocio Hurtado, M.D., Infectious Diseases Division, Massachusetts General Hospital and Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2002 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
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