RELAPSE IN HANSEN'S DISEASE - A RETROSPECTIVE AND DESCRIPTIVE STUDY OF 5 YEARS
Abstract
Introduction: Relapse of Hansen's disease refers to the appearance of new signs and symptoms in patients with a previous diagnosis and who completed the treatment regimen proposed by WHO.
Objectives: To determine and characterize relapse cases of Hansen's disease within five years (2008-2012), in Hansen's disease consultation from Hospital Curry Cabral.
Material and Methods: We conducted a retrospective and descriptive review of clinical records, identifying cases in a total of 89 patients seen in consultation in that period. The minimum follow-up time was 6 months. In all cases, clinical suspicion of relapse was confirmed by bacteriological and histopathological examination.
Results: We identified 4 cases of relapse, which corresponded to 4.5% of patients observed, all with a previous diagnosis of borderline lepromatous clinical form, according to the Ridley-Jopling classification. Therapy has been established for multibacillar forms according to WHO scheme in all cases. Relapses occurred in a follow-up period between 7 and 16 months after treatment discontinuation.
Discussion: The frequency of relapse in this population was higher than that observed in most studies. There was poor adherence to therapy in all cases, admitted as the cause of relapse, after excluded other factors. We emphasize the importance of regular monitoring of patients undergoing treatment, to ensure adherence and effectiveness of therapy.
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