Leprosy Classification

Leprosy classification includes Ridley-Jopling and WHO systems that serve different purposes. The WHO classification divides leprosy into paucibacillary and multibacillary categories based on the number of skin lesions and affected nerves. Ridley-Jopling classification distinguishes forms by immune response, granuloma features, and skin smear findings. Paucibacillary leprosy facilitates a shorter treatment regimen, while multibacillary leprosy requires a longer treatment regimen.