Analysis of Active Search in Contact Examinations of Cases of Leprosy in the Municipality of Almenara-MG between 2017-2021

Abstract

Leprosy is a silent, chronic disease caused by the agent Mycobacterium leprae. Causes skin damage, loss of sensation, neural impairment and physical disabilities. These are items responsible for the taboo and prejudice surrounding the disease. The aim of this study was analysis of the active search in contact exams of leprosy cases in the city of Almenara/MG in the years 2017-2021, based on the analysis of information reported in the Notifiable Diseases Information System (SINAN), provided by the Municipal Department of Health. A descriptive-exploratory bibliographic review of a qualitative-quantitative nature was used as an investigative method to obtain pertinent and coherent information for the theoretical foundation of the problem. Results: The data analyzed in the municipality of Almenara – MG and in the district of Pedra Grande – MG are worrying, as they show that the multibacillary operational classification was the most prevalent. It was evidenced that there is a predominance of male cases with leprosy. There was an increase in cases of recurrence, where the main cause is MDT treatment done inappropriately or incorrectly. The average number of contacts for 2017-2021 data is 3-4 people per notified patient. Leprosy is a public health problem in Brazil; thus, it is necessary to emphasize the importance of the pharmacist for early diagnosis. In view of this study and the studies presented in this work, it is concluded that active search is a primordial method for the early detection of the disease. The sooner the disease is diagnosed, the less chance it will cause physical disability and nerve damage. For this, it is necessary to be more efficient in the search for intra-household and social contacts for the patient. As well as day care centers and schools, to avoid active cases of the disease in the age group of 00-15 years.