Leprosy mnemonic

Distinguishing type 1 and type 2 lepra reactions

The mnemonic

1 is Delayed, 2 is Immune complex

What each word stands for

  • Type 1Reversal reaction, delayed type IV hypersensitivity, borderline disease
  • Type 2ENL, immune complex type III, lepromatous disease

Why it matters clinically

Helps choose treatment and predict nerve damage.

Where it stops being reliable

Does not cover Lucio phenomenon.

Teaching aid, still awaiting independent review. Confirm facts in a standard source.

More mnemonics

Common questions

What is the Leprosy mnemonic?

1 is Delayed, 2 is Immune complex. It helps you recall: Distinguishing type 1 and type 2 lepra reactions.

What does "Type 1" stand for?

Reversal reaction, delayed type IV hypersensitivity, borderline disease

What does "Type 2" stand for?

ENL, immune complex type III, lepromatous disease

What are all the parts of the 1 is Delayed, 2 is Immune complex mnemonic?

Type 1: Reversal reaction, delayed type IV hypersensitivity, borderline disease; Type 2: ENL, immune complex type III, lepromatous disease.

Which topic does this mnemonic belong to?

It belongs to Leprosy in Dermatology.

Where does this mnemonic stop being reliable?

Does not cover Lucio phenomenon.

How is this useful clinically?

Helps choose treatment and predict nerve damage.

How do I make this mnemonic stick?

Say it aloud, write it from memory tomorrow, then again in a week. Then test yourself on a Dermatology question about Leprosy.

Is this a standard mnemonic?

It is a teaching aid written or adapted by our team. Some resemble ones students share informally. Check any fact that matters in a standard source.