Leprosy

Definition

Leprosy, also known as Hansen's disease, is a chronic infectious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium leprae. It primarily affects the skin, peripheral nerves, upper respiratory tract, and eyes.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Leprosy is caused by Mycobacterium leprae, a Gram-positive bacillus.
2. The disease is characterized by long incubation periods ranging from several months to up to 20 years.
3. It spreads through respiratory droplets but requires prolonged close contact for transmission.
4. Antimicrobial drugs such as dapsone, rifampicin, and clofazimine are used in multi-drug therapy (MDT) to treat leprosy effectively.
5. Severe cases can lead to nerve damage resulting in muscle weakness and deformities.

Review Questions

• What type of bacterium causes leprosy?
• How is leprosy primarily transmitted?
• What are the key antimicrobial drugs used in the treatment of leprosy?

Related terms

Mycobacterium leprae:

A Gram-positive bacterium that causes leprosy.

Multi-Drug Therapy (MDT): A treatment regimen involving the use of multiple antimicrobial drugs to cure leprosy.

Peripheral Neuropathy: Damage or dysfunction of peripheral nerves often seen in advanced cases of leprosy.