High-resolution ultrasound in the assessment of peripheral nerves in leprosy: A comparative cross-sectional study.

Background: Detection of peripheral nerve thickening and nerve function impairment is crucial in the diagnosis and the management of leprosy.

Aims And Objectives: (1) To document the cross-sectional area, echotexture and blood flow of peripheral nerves in healthy controls and leprosy cases using high-resolution ultrasound, (2) to compare the sensitivities of clinical examination and high-resolution ultrasound in detecting peripheral nerve thickening in leprosy.

Methods: Peripheral nerves of 30 leprosy patients and 30 age- and sex-matched controls were evaluated clinically and by high-resolution ultrasound.