Ocular disabilities in leprosy, Larkana district, Sindh, Pakistan

ABSTRACT

Eye involvement is a common cause of disability and morbidity in leprosy patients. During the Leishmaniasis survey in the mountainous belt, leprosy patients were also checked for different eye complications. The purpose of this survey was to find out the frequency and severity of ophthalmic disabilities and deformities associated with leprosy in Larkana district. The disabilities and deformities noted were graded according to WHO criteria [1982] as grade I, II and III. Eye complications were seen in 43.4% of leprosy patients. There were 71% males and 29% females. Both eyes were affected. Grade I disabilities were more frequent. Eye complications are quite common in leprosy patients of Larkana region. Patients` education, early diagnosis and treatment and continuous surveillance are mandatory to reduce this high figure