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Leprosy
Medical Questions » Leprosy
| Name: Leprosy |
| Also known as: Hansen' s Disease |
| Very slowly progressive bacterial infection that damages the skin and nerves (neuropathy). |
Causes of Leprosy
Caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium leprae, which is spread from one person to another by prolonged close contact, most commonly in childhood. |
Symptoms of Leprosy
Pale, thick patches of skin on the hands and feet are the first sign, followed by slowly enlarging nodules. The nerves supplying the affected areas of skin become involved and sensation is lost. The cooler parts of the body, furthest from the heart, are affected first. As the disease progresses, a pins and needles sensation may be felt, ulcers form, and bones in the fingers and toes begin to disintegrate. There is rarely any pain. |
Tests for Leprosy
Diagnosis can be confirmed by microscopic examination of a skin biopsy. |
Treatment for Leprosy
A number of antileprotic drugs are available that will slowly cure leprosy over several years. Any existing deformities must be treated with plastic surgery.
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Complications of Leprosy of its treatment
Damage and deformity is due to unintentional burns and injuries to totally numb tissue. In severe cases, fingers and toes do fall off, but this is very rare. |
Likely Outcome of Leprosy
With good management, cure is possible and patients can live normally in the community. Untreated, the disease progresses to death over 10 to 20 years. |
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