LEPROSY REPORT

Definition:
Leprosy, also known as Hansen's disease, is a chronic infectious disease primarily caused by
the bacterium Mycobacterium leprae. This disease primarily affects the skin and peripheral
nerves, and if left untreated, it can result in severe deformities and disabilities.

Epidemiology:
Leprosy is a disease with a global presence, but it is most prevalent in tropical and subtropical
regions. Countries with the highest reported cases include India, Brazil, Indonesia, and Nigeria.
The disease predominantly affects impoverished communities with limited access to healthcare.

Causative Agent:
Mycobacterium leprae is an acid-fast, intracellular bacterium responsible for leprosy. It primarily
affects the skin and peripheral nerves. This bacteria can be found naturally in soils, M. leprae
DNA can be detected in soil near human and animal sources, suggesting that environmental
sources represent (temporary) reservoirs for M. leprae.

Transmission:
Leprosy is believed to be transmitted through prolonged close contact with an untreated,
infectious individual. The exact mode of transmission is not fully understood, but it is
thought to occur through respiratory droplets.

Clinical Manifestations:
Leprosy primarily presents with two main forms:

● Tuberculoid Leprosy (TT): Characterized by hypopigmented, well-defined skin lesions

with sensory loss. Nerves may be enlarged.
● Lepromatous Leprosy (LL): Presents with diffuse skin lesions, nodules, and severe
sensory loss. Progresses rapidly, leading to systemic involvement.

Diagnosis:

● Clinical Assessment: Evaluation of skin lesions, nerve involvement, sensory loss, and
deformities.
● Slit Skin Smear (SSS): Detection of acid-fast bacilli in skin samples.
● Skin Biopsy: Histopathological examination to confirm the presence of granulomatous
inflammation.

Treatment:
Leprosy is curable with multidrug therapy (MDT), a combination of antibiotics:
● Rifampicin
● Dapsone
● Clofazimine
The choice of MDT regimen depends on the clinical form and severity of the disease. Treatment
duration can range from 6 months to several years.

Complications:
If left untreated, leprosy can lead to severe complications, including:
● Permanent nerve damage
● Sensory and motor deficits
● Ulcerations and secondary infections
● Disfigurement and disability

Prevention:
Preventive measures focus on early diagnosis and treatment, contact tracing, and patient
education to reduce the transmission of the disease. Leprosy is not highly contagious, and
with early intervention, its transmission can be effectively controlled.

Conclusion:
Leprosy is a chronic infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium leprae, primarily affecting the
skin and peripheral nerves. Early diagnosis and multidrug therapy are essential in preventing
severe complications and deformities. With sustained efforts in healthcare and education,
leprosy can be effectively managed and its impact minimized.

QUESTIONS:
1. What’s the other term for Leprosy?
2. How can Leprosy be transmitted?
3. What is the Causative Agent of Leprosy?