Leprosy

Leprosy is a chronic infectious disease caused by the acid-fast bacteria Mycobacterium leprae and M lepromatosis, characterised by skin lesion(s) and involvement of peripheral nerves.

Skin lesions can be erythematous or hypopigmented, single or multiple macules, papules, or nodules, sometimes with loss of sensation.

Skin smear may or may not be positive for acid-fast bacilli (AFB) depending on the classification (multibacillary vs. paucibacillary).

Nerve damage to peripheral nerve trunks may occur, with loss of sensation in the skin and weakness of muscles supplied by the affected nerve, leading to disabilities.

Diagnosis is most commonly based on clinical signs and symptoms, and in practice, people usually report on their own to the health centre.

The standard WHO-recommended treatment for leprosy is with multi-drug therapy.

Leprosy (also known as Hansen’s disease) is a chronic infectious disease characterised by one or more of the following features: hypopigmented or erythematous skin lesion(s) with loss of sensation; involvement of the peripheral nerves, as demonstrated by loss of sensation, paraesthesias (tingling of hands and feet), and weakness of the muscles of hands, feet, or face.[1]World Health Organization. Towards zero leprosy. Global leprosy (Hansen’s Disease) strategy 2021-2030. Apr 2021 [internet publication]. https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789290228509