Treatment of ulnar and median nerve function loss in borderline leprosy

A rigid cortico-steroid treatment regimen was given to borderline leprosy patients who had recent nerve function loss due to reversal reaction. In order to record nerve function changes objectively a nerve index was used which was based on the results of voluntary muscle testing and sensory testing. Ninety-three ulnar and median nerves were followed in this study. Improvement in ulnar nerve function was obtained in 60% and in the median nerve in 67%. Overall improvement was better in BL nerves (85%) when compared with BT nerves (51%). The results show a more rapid recovery of median nerve function as compared to the ulnar nerve. There was a slightly better recovery of nerve function in previously untreated leprosy patients (69%) as compared to patients who developed nerve function loss while on anti-leprosy treatment (59%).