Every thing you want to know about Leprosy

Leprosy

Definition:

-chronic systemic infection characterized by progressive cutaneous lesions.

Etiologic Agent: Mycobacterium leprae – an acid-fast bacilli that attack cutaneous tissues and peripheral nerves, producing skin lesions, anesthesia, infection, and deformities.

Incubation Period: 5 ½ months – 8 years

Mode of Transmission of Leprosy

4. Through respiratory droplet

5. Through the skin break & mucous membrane

Clinical Manifestations of Leprosy

1.       Clawhand, footdrop, and ocular manifestations such as corneal insensitivity, and ulceration, conjunctivitis, photophobia, and blindness develop.

2.       Lepromatous leprosy can invade tissues in every organ of the body.

3.       The lesions enlarge and form plagues on nodules on the earlobes, nose, eyebrows, and forehead, giving the patient a leonine appearance.

4.       Loss of eyebrows and eyelashes.

5.       Loss of function of sweat and sebaceous glands.

6.       Epistaxis, ulceration of the uvula and tonsils, septal perforation and nasal collapse.

Diagnostic Procedures of Leprosy

·         Identification of the signs and symptoms

·         Tissue biopsy

·         Tissue smear

·         Blood tests show increased RBC and ESR; decreased Ca, albumin, and cholesterol level.

Modalities of Treatment of Leprosy

·         Sulfone therapy

·         Multiple Drug Therapy

·         Rehabilitation, recreational and occupational therapy

Prevention from Leprosy

1.       Report all cases and suspects of leprosy.

2.       Newborn infants should be separated from leprous mothers.

3.       BCG vaccine may be protective if given during the first 6 months of life.

4.       Health education should be given as to the mode of transmission.