Prevenção de incapacidades e reabilitação em hanseníase: perfil dos usuários de centro de referência em hospital universitário de Belo Horizonte

Abstract

Introduction: Leprosy is endemic in Brazil, and has important morbidity due to its incapacitat ing potential. It should be treated in Primary Health Care with hierarchical actions in the care network and referral centers have a relevant role in approaching the complications of the disease. Objectives: To describe the sociodemographic and clinical characteristics of leprosy patients assisted in the disability prevention and rehabilitation sector in a referral center in a university hospital. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study, covering all patients seen be tween August 2012/2013, based on standardized records. Results and Discussion: A high level of vulnerability was observed due to the predominance of multibacillary clinical classification and reactional events, with a high percentage of installed disabilities (26%), of which 30% had more than one affected segment. The low schooling level (65%) and unfavorable employment situation with 10% unemployed and 22% with temporary INSS benefits may leads to progressive worsening of disabilities. The reference center fulfills its role at the Regional and State level, cov ering regions that do not have close references. Final considerations: The vulnerability of the individuals treated was evidenced, and the importance of post-discharge follow-up of leprosy cases, especially the multibacillary one and those with reactions, should be considered