leprominA

LeprominA is a purified protein derivative (PPD) used in the diagnosis of leprosy, a bacterial infection caused by Mycobacterium leprae. It is a component of the leprosy bacillus and is used in the Mantoux test, a tuberculin skin test, to detect a delayed-type hypersensitivity reaction in individuals exposed to leprominA. The test involves injecting a small amount of leprominA into the skin and measuring the size of the resulting induration after 48 to 72 hours. A positive reaction indicates exposure to the leprosy bacillus, which can be further evaluated to determine the presence of active leprosy.

LeprominA is prepared from the culture filtrate of Mycobacterium leprae and is standardized to contain a specific amount of leprominA protein. It is typically administered as a suspension in saline or as a dried powder for intradermal injection. The test is widely used in endemic areas for leprosy screening and surveillance, as well as in non-endemic regions for the diagnosis of leprosy in immigrants and travelers.

The Mantoux test using leprominA is considered safe and has a low risk of adverse reactions. However, false-positive and false-negative results can occur, and the test should be interpreted with caution, especially in individuals with a history of tuberculosis or other granulomatous diseases. In cases of suspected leprosy, further diagnostic tests, such as skin biopsy, polymerase chain reaction (PCR), or culture, may be required for confirmation.