Review of leprosy cases in Benghazi, Libyan Arab Jamahiriya, 1994-98.

A descriptive study was conducted using case records from the Leprosy Clinic, Benghazi for the period 1994-98. A constant decline in the number of leprosy cases registered for multidrug treatment (MDT) was observed, from 18 in 1994 to 4 in 1998. The ratio of multibacillary to paucibacillary cases was 1.3:1. Most of the patients were young male adults who were socially and economically productive. An hypopigmented patch was the most common lesion present on easily accessible sites. Early registration, compliance with MDT and follow-up will enhance the cure rate and lead to a reduction in disability rates. Despite elimination surveillance for new leprosy cases is essential.