Abstract: Background: In 2020, Shandong Province achieved the goals of the National Plan for the Elimination of Leprosy Hazards (2011-2020), and the rate of grade 2 disability (G2D) among newly detected cases decreased to 14%. In view of the long incubation period of leprosy, it is necessary to continuously strengthen early detection of leprosy cases through symptomatic surveillance and other measures to consolidate the achievement of goals. Objective: We analysed the newly diagnosed leprosy cases in Shandong Province in 2021, and summarized the leprosy control and prevention effects after achieving the targets. Methods: Leprosy symptomatic surveillance was preformed through 182 dermatology specialized alliance units. Suspected leprosy cases or skin diseases cases that cant be diagnosed were referred to Shandong Provincial Institute of Dermatology and Venereology (SPIDV) for confirmation or elimination of leprosy. All confirmed leprosy cases received multidrug therapy in SPIDV. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS16.0. Numerical variables were described using mean ± standard deviation, and categorical variables were described using rates. Results: In 2021, a total of 623 suspected leprosy cases or skin diseases cases that cant be diagnosed were referred to SPIDV. 12 patients were diagnosed as leprosy, including 11 newly detected cases and 1 relapsing case. The G2D of new leprosy cases decreased to a record low of 9%. Leprosy reaction was 75% among 12 cases, and the combination of prednisone, immunosuppressant, and biologics has better therapeutic effect. Conclusion: Symptomatic surveillance of leprosy by relying on dermatologists in general hospitals and leprosy prevention institutes is necessary to early detect of potential leprosy cases, prevent disability of cases and consolidate the achievement of targets.

Key words: leprosy, symptomatic surveillance, early detection