Anti-PGL-I seropositivity and development of leprosy in contacts: a comprehensive analysis of sociodemographic determinants, genetic susceptibility, and exposure characteristics to Mycobacterium leprae.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Leprosy is an infectious disease that remains hyperendemic in several Brazilian regions. Patient contacts face a higher risk for infection and illness, which can subsequently contribute to the persistence of the disease.

Objective

This study investigates the risk factors associated with anti-phenolic glycolipid-I (anti-PGL-I) seropositivity and leprosy development among contacts of leprosy patients in a highly endemic region.

Methods

A cohort of 629 contacts from the Almenara microregion, Minas Gerais, Brazil, was followed from 1998 to 2018. Our research group assessed risk factors, including sociodemographic determinants, bacillus exposure, and genetic susceptibility.

Findings

Analysis revealed that living with a multibacillary (MB) leprosy patient

SUBMITTER: Niitsuma ENA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12113343 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature