Leprous

Leprous at Wacken Open Air 2013

Leprous Euroblast 2014 01

Leprosy, also known as Hansen's disease (HD), is a long-term infection caused by the bacteria Mycobacterium leprae and Mycobacterium lepromatosis. Primarily affecting the skin, nerves, and mucous membranes, the disease can produce a wide range of symptoms and manifestations. The infection is known to cause skin lesions and nerve damage, leading to decreased ability to feel pain and thus resulting in secondary infections and injuries.

Causes and Transmission

Leprosy is caused by the bacteria Mycobacterium leprae and Mycobacterium lepromatosis. It is a communicable disease but is considered to be only mildly contagious. Transmission is believed to occur through prolonged close contact with an infected person, or through respiratory droplets. The exact mechanism of transmission, however, remains somewhat unclear.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

Symptoms of leprosy can vary but often include skin lesions that may be lighter than the normal skin tone or reddish, and may have decreased sensation to touch, temperature, or pain. The lesions may also be accompanied by nerve damage, leading to weakness and numbness in the hands and feet. Severe, untreated cases can lead to significant disability, including the loss of fingers and toes, due to repeated injury or infection due to unnoticed wounds.

Diagnosis is primarily based on the clinical signs and symptoms. A skin biopsy or nerve biopsy can confirm the presence of the Mycobacterium leprae bacteria. Additionally, various diagnostic tests, including skin smears, can be used to support the diagnosis.

Treatment

The treatment for leprosy is highly effective and involves a combination of antibiotics, known as multi-drug therapy (MDT). The World Health Organization (WHO) provides these medications free of charge to all patients worldwide. The standard treatment lasts for 6 to 12 months, depending on the type and severity of the disease. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent disability related to the disease.

Epidemiology

Leprosy is most common in warm, tropical countries, with the majority of cases occurring in Africa, Asia, and Latin America. The number of new cases reported globally has decreased significantly in recent decades, thanks to effective treatment and public health efforts. However, small pockets of high endemicity still exist in certain areas.

History

Leprosy has affected humanity for thousands of years, with evidence of the disease dating back to ancient civilizations. It has historically been a stigmatized condition, often leading to the isolation of affected individuals in "leper colonies". The discovery of the causative agent, Mycobacterium leprae, by Gerhard Armauer Hansen in 1873 marked a significant breakthrough in understanding the disease, making leprosy the first human disease to be identified as being caused by bacteria.

Social and Cultural Aspects

The social and cultural impact of leprosy has been profound throughout history, with affected individuals often facing stigma and isolation. Efforts to combat the disease have not only focused on the medical treatment but also on addressing the social stigma and integrating cured individuals back into society.

See Also

• Mycobacterium leprae
• Communicable disease
• Skin lesion
• Nerve damage
• World Health Organization

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