Leprosy (Hansen's Disease)

Description

A chronic infectious disease caused by the slow-growing bacterium Mycobacterium leprae. It primarily affects the skin, the peripheral nerves, mucosa of the upper respiratory tract, eyes, and testes. It is curable with multidrug therapy.

Common Symptoms

• Discolored patches of skin, usually flat, that may be numb
• Growths (nodules) on the skin
• Thick, stiff or dry skin
• Painless ulcers on the soles of feet
• Numbness or muscle weakness due to nerve damage.

Common Causes

• Infection with Mycobacterium leprae. The mode of transmission is not fully understood but is thought to be through droplets from the nose and mouth during close and frequent contact with untreated cases.

Treatment Information