Computational investigation of the global prevalence of multidrug resistant : A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Background: Leprosy is a chronic infectious disease caused by () However, the emergence of drug-resistant strains of this bacterium, especially multidrug-resistant (MDR) strains, is a serious concern. This study aimed to evaluate the global prevalence of MDR and its implications.

Methods: Using PRISMA guidelines, we systematically reviewed ISI Web of Science, MEDLINE, and EMBASE up to August 2023 to assess the prevalence of MDR . We included human clinical trials on MDR , as well as excluded reviews, animal studies, and unavailable full texts. Data was analyzed using Comprehensive Meta-Analysis software, and publication bias was addressed using Egger's, Begg's tests, and the trim-fill method.

Results: Overall, 861 articles were initially identified, of which 28 met the methodological criteria for inclusion in the quantitative synthesis. Statistically, the combined prevalence of drug resistant was approximated at 11.7 % (95 % CI: 7.7-17.3; : 90.79; value = 0.01). Specific drug resistance rates included 7.4 % to dapsone and 5.1 % to rifampin, among others. The global rate for MDR was measured at 2.2 % (95 % CI: 1.2-3.9; : 82.68; value = 0.01). Factors such as bacterial density and the lepromatous phase were associated with elevated DR risk (OR: 2.69; 95 % CI: 1.35-2.48). A systematic assessment of publication bias indicated a minimal impact on the general results.

Conclusions: The increasing prevalence of MDR globally requires urgent and strategic interventions to prevent further spread, which in turn is effective in treating leprosy patients.