In the WHO classification for leprosy treatment, paucibacillary leprosy is defined by which criterion, and what is the recommended MDT regimen?

• A >5 skin lesions; Rifampicin + Dapsone + Clofazimine for 12 months
• B ≤5 skin lesions; Rifampicin + Dapsone for 6 months ✓
• C Positive slit-skin smear; Rifampicin + Dapsone + Clofazimine for 12 months
• D ≤5 skin lesions; Isoniazid + Rifampicin for 6 months

Explanation

Paucibacillary leprosy is defined as ≤5 skin lesions with negative slit-skin smear (BI=0). WHO MDT is rifampicin monthly + dapsone daily for 6 months. Multibacillary (>5 lesions or positive smear) receives rifampicin + dapsone + clofazimine for 12 months. This classification guides treatment duration and drug selection in national leprosy programmes.

Reference: Park's Textbook of Preventive and Social Medicine, 27th ed.

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