Detection of the antibody anti-PGL-1 in the saliva of leprosy patients as an exposition parameter to Mycobacterium leprae and diasease activity.

Abstract

Leprosy is a chronic infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium leprae, an acid-fast bacillus that presents a peculiar tropism for peripheral nerves and the skin. The prevalence of leprosy in the world has declined since the introduction of the multidrug therapy (MDT) recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO, 1982). However, leprosy is still a public health problem. The upper airways has a great importance as a route of Mycobacterium leprae infection and because of the possibility of identifying relevant tools by systematic patient evaluation,the detection of leprosy patients by means of salivary markers becomes important. The aim of this study was to analyze anti-phenolic glycolipid 1 (anti-PGL-1) salivary and serum titers as parameters for correlation with infection, antigen exposure and treatment response. Approach: Leprosy patientsbefore, during and after specific treatment for leprosy will be selected. Salivary and serum anti-PGL-1 levels will be determined by Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) in leprosy patients, operational contacts and healthy control.