Iron therapy in severe cutaneous leprosy

ABSTRACT

Abnormally low haemoglobin readings have been found in patients suffering from leprosy, particularly the lepromatous form, in the absence of intercurrent disease and secondary septic complications. This is particularly, marked in the L2 and L3 cases where patients fail to improve on routine treatment over a prolonged period. Response to Ferri et Ammon. Citrate is immediate and rapid up to a level of about 65-70 percent, and further gain follows the administration of Ferrous Sulphate. Clinical improvement follows the rise in haemoglobin. The haemoglobin curve appears to be an accurate clinical barometer, similar to the Blood Sedimentation Index. Haemoglobin estimations are simpler and take far less time. The possible influence of the diet is indicated. The investigation took place over 14 months, involving 195 persons and including 21 "controls" (Summary)