Abstract
Out of the cases we experienced in our 11-year service in sanatorium, 6 cases were selected to review the medical care and social environment that each patient was involved. Two cases were the residents in a sanatorium and 4 cases were in the community, including 2 cases having foreign nationality.
The review of these cases drew the following conclusions.
1. We must be aware of our responsibility for early diagnosis and treatment of leprosy to prevent tragic disability.
2. The fixed duration of MDT/MB may not be enough for LL cases having high bacterial load before treatment. Enough duration of chemotherapy and follow-up is desired to prevent avoidable disability.
3. Basically, the treatment of leprosy should be carried on in outpatient clinic. The duration of hospitalization, if necessary, should be shortest to enhance patient's motive for treatment.
4. Intermittent administration of RFP must be done under direct observation.
5. For foreign patients not accustomed to the life in Japan or elderly patient living by oneself, various supports from community are greatly helpful to achieve the long course of leprosy treatment. Through these supports, we can expect community enlightening that may promote rehabilitation of the people once suffered from leprosy.
