Slit Skin Smear Test Skin Smear
What is this test?
The clinical system of classification for the purpose of treatment includes the use of number of skin lesions and nerves involved as the basis for grouping leprosy patients into multibacillary (MB) and paucibacillary (PB) leprosy. A skin smear is a test in which a sample of material is collected from a tiny cut in the skin and then stained for M. leprae, an acid-fast bacillus. Skin smears or biopsy material that show acid-fast bacilli with the Ziel-Neelsen stain or the Fite stain can diagnose multibacillary leprosy. If bacteria are absent, paucibacillary leprosy can be diagnosed. Other less commonly used tests include blood exams, nasal smears, and nerve biopsies.
Also known as Slit Skin Smear Test.
Test Preparation
No special preparation is needed for Slit Skin Smear Test Skin Smear. Inform your doctor if you are on any medications or have any underlying medical conditions or allergies before undergoing Slit Skin Smear Test Skin Smear. Your doctor depending on your condition will give specific instructions.
Understanding your test results
| Gender | Age groups | Value |
| UNISEX | All age groups | It is reported by the pathologist based on the number of bacilli present per high power field |