OXIDATION-REDUCTION FUNCTION (TTC REACTION) OF THE SKIN IN LEPROSY

Abstract

Recently, we found that the intracutaneous coloration reaction with TTC is superior to the methylene blue test in examining the oxid.-red. function of the skin.
This method was tested in leprosy and the following results obtained.
1) A comparative study of the oxid.-red. ability (TRI) of the skin in leprosy shows that similar to normal subjects, it is stronger in the male than in the female, it decreases in strength in the order intrascapular region>intraciavicular region>flexor surface of the forearm>flexor surface of the lower leg. It is markedly higher in the L-form and in the N-form is between the L-form and the healthy subject. No significant difference was noted in age, duration of illness or time of year (January and April).
2) No significant difference was noted between the healthy skin and regions of sensitivity or perspiration disturbances but a marked rise in TRI was found in the acute stage of ENL. A high value was also found at the site of the lesion in tuberculoid macules, ENL and leprous leucodermia, but was low in acute infiltration and macularization.
3) There appears to be some relationship between TRI and blood sedimentation rate, capillary resistance and the Mitsuda reaction but there was no relationship between the TRI and the hyaluronidase spreading reaction or the tuberculin reaction.
From these indings, it is suggested that the irregularities in the TTC reaction (TRI) in leprosy are due to systemic changes resulting from tissue destruction and the autonomic nervous system and endocrine system are also involved.