Whole genome sequencing distinguishes between relapse and reinfection in recurrent leprosy cases

Conclusions/SignificanceThis is the first report of usingM.leprae whole genome sequencing to reveal that treated and cured leprosy patients who remain in endemic areas can be reinfected by another strain. Next generation sequencing can be applied reliably toM.leprae DNA extracted from biopsies to discriminate between cases of relapse and reinfection, thereby providing a powerful tool for evaluating different outcomes of therapeutic regimens and for following disease transmission.
Source: PLoS Neglected Tropical Diseases - Category: Tropical Medicine Authors: Source Type: research