Leprosy

Leprosy (leprosy) is a chronic infectious disease characterized by a long course. Leprosy occurs with damage to the skin, mucous membranes, nervous, endocrine systems and internal organs. The causative agent of leprosy is Hansen's bacillus from the Mycobacterium family. Leprosy is a highly contagious disease. The pathogen enters the body when the defenses are weakened and the skin has microtraumas.

There are 2 types of leprosy: lepromatous and tuberculoid.

The lepromatous type of leprosy is characterized by the appearance on the skin of subtle reddish spots with a purple tint. Gradually, the spots merge, and nodes form in the skin and subcutaneous fat. They are most often located on the face, as a result of which facial expressions are disrupted. In addition to the face, nodes appear on the extensor surface of the limbs, on certain parts of the body and on internal organs. In addition to nodes, tubercles (lepromas) can form, ranging in size from a match head to a pea, with a dense consistency and red-brown color. The tubercles and nodes can ulcerate, and bones, muscles and cartilage are often involved in the process. In patients with leprosy, internal organs are affected: most often the lungs, liver, and spleen. The lepromatous type of leprosy is characterized by the release of a huge number of Hansen's bacilli from the mucous membrane. To diagnose leprosy, an intradermal test with lepromin is used.

The tuberculoid type of leprosy has a more favorable course. The skin and peripheral nerves are mainly affected. Sharply defined red-blue spots appear on the skin, along the periphery of which there are purple tubercles. Gradually, the spots merge, forming plaques. The tuberculoid form is characterized by early impairment of pain, temperature, and later tactile sensitivity.

Prevention

When a leprosy patient is identified, Form 58 is filled out and sent to the sanitary control authorities. The patient's family is examined at least once a year. Newborns are immediately separated from sick mothers. In places with a relatively high incidence of leprosy, immunoprophylaxis with the BCG vaccine is carried out.

Leprosy: History, symptoms and modern advances in treatment

Leprosy, also known as Hansen's disease or leprosy, is a chronic infectious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium leprae. The word "leprosy" comes from the Greek word "lepra", which means "leprosy" and refers to one of the characteristic symptoms of this disease - the appearance of scaly patches on the skin.

Historically, leprosy has been one of the most feared and stigmatized diseases. Mentions of it can be found in ancient texts from various cultures, including ancient Indian, Greek, Chinese and Egyptian texts. In the Middle Ages, leprosy became especially frightening, and patients were isolated from society and lived in special leper colonies.

Symptoms of leprosy may appear after a long incubation period, which can range from several months to several years. Main symptoms include blotchy skin, loss of sensation in the affected areas, skin ulcers, and nerve and joint problems. If the disease is not treated, it can progress and cause serious damage to the skin, bones, eyes, and other organs.

However, significant advances have been made in the treatment of leprosy in recent decades. Many countries have implemented programs for the early detection and treatment of leprosy, and modern antibiotics can control and cure most cases of this disease. Early detection and treatment of leprosy is critical to preventing disability and complications associated with the disease.

In addition, there are numerous organizations and communities that work to overcome the social stigma associated with leprosy and provide support to those affected. Information campaigns and educational programs help raise awareness of leprosy and combat negative stigma and discrimination.

In conclusion, leprosy, although remains a disease of concern, modern medical and social advances have made it possible to effectively control and treat the disease. It is important to continue to inform and educate people about leprosy to break the stigma and ensure access to quality treatment for everyone who needs it.