Early diagnosis and treatment of leprosy in intradomiciliary contacts in a high prevalence area: Amazon region.

The importance of dermato-neurological examination of intradomiciliary contacts is well known as an important secondary preventive measure in leprosy control, due to the fact that it allows early diagnosis and treatment. This is an intervention trial in an area of high leprosy prevalence (Manaus/Brazil) where the proportion of contacts examined is low. The aim of the study is to assess whether a simple educational session conducted among patients increases contacts examination and leads to early case detection. The intervention group had examined more contacts (p < 0.05) but, paradoxically, presented fewer new cases than the control group. The authors discuss the probable causes for this unexpected outcome, the advantages of the intervention and other related issues.