Biochemical aspects of reactional states in leprosy.

Sequential biochemical investigations conducted in cases of lepromatous leprosy in the reactive as well as subsided phases indicated elevated serum levels of mucoproteins and sialic acids and skin levels of hydroxy-proline and hexosamine in the reactive phase of lepromatous leprosy. Elevation of the urinary excretion of hydroxy-proline and certain other amino acids was also noticed during 'lepra reaction'. Enhancement of serum levels of Aldolase, CPK, LDH and transaminases was observed in the reactive phase of lepromatous leprosy. These findings taken as a whole suggest a generalised tissue breakdown in lepra reaction.