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Leprosy (Hansen’s Disease)

What is Leprosy?

  • Leprosy (Hansen’s disease) is a chronic infectious disease caused by the bacteria Mycobacterium leprae.
  • It mainly affects: Skin, Peripheral nerves, Eyes, Upper respiratory tract.
  • If untreated, it can lead to permanent disability and deformities, but it is completely curable.

Cause of Leprosy

  • Caused by slow-growing bacteria (Mycobacterium leprae).
  • Spreads through respiratory droplets (coughing/sneezing) during prolonged close contact.
  • Not easily contagious and does NOT spread by casual contact (e.g., handshakes, sharing food).

Symptoms of Leprosy

  • Skin symptoms
    • Pale or discoloured patches
    • Thick, dry, or stiff skin
    • Nodules or lumps
    • Painless ulcers
  • Nerve-related symptoms
    • Loss of sensation (numbness)
    • Muscle weakness or paralysis
    • Enlarged nerves
  • Other symptoms
    • Eye problems (can lead to blindness)
    • Loss of eyebrows/eyelashes
    • Nose blockage or bleeding

Complications of Leprosy

  • Permanent nerve damage
  • Paralysis of hands/feet
  • Chronic ulcers
  • Blindness
  • Disfigurement of face and limbs

Types of Leprosy

  • Paucibacillary (PB): 1–5 skin lesions (mild)
  • Multibacillary (MB): >5 lesions, more severe disease

Treatment of Leprosy

  • Treated with multidrug therapy (MDT):
  • Dapsone
  • Rifampicin
  • Clofazimine
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