Evidence relating to the elimination of leprosy disease from Jordan
Introduction: Leprosy, caused by Mycobacterium leprae, is a chronic infectious disease with significant implications for affected individuals and communities. Despite significant progress in diagnosis and treatment, leprosy continues to pose health challenges in many regions around the world. This study focuses on Jordan, where leprosy has been effectively controlled for well over a decade. Using a comprehensive approach, we aimed to verify the absence of leprosy transmission and support the verification of the elimination of leprosy disease in Jordan.
Methods: Data were collected from histopathological records of patients who underwent skin biopsies at two prominent public hospitals: Al-Basheer Hospital in Amman and King Abdullah University Hospital (KAUH) in Irbid. The absence of confirmed cases in biopsy reports would contribute evidence for leprosy elimination. The study period spanned from January 1, 2014, to December 31, 2023.
Results: Analysis revealed no suspected or diagnosed cases of leprosy during the study period. At Al-Basheer Hospital, none of the 993 skin biopsies conducted between 2017 and 2021 indicated leprosy. Similarly, at KAUH, out of 13,006 biopsies performed from 2014 to 2023, none showed signs of leprosy. Additionally, suspected and diagnosed cases of cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) and sarcoidosis were meticulously examined to ensure no cases of leprosy were overlooked.
Discussion: The findings support the effectiveness of the surveillance system in Jordan and align with the WHO’s criteria for leprosy elimination. To further strengthen surveillance and ensure thorough verification, the Ministry of Health (MOH) has implemented various measures, including the development of the Leprosy Elimination Monitoring Tool (LEMT) and training sessions for healthcare professionals.
Conclusion: This study underscores Jordan’s commitment to achieving the goals outlined in the WHO Global Leprosy Strategy 2021–2030, towards the ultimate goal