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Leprosy

Updated : August 24, 2023





Background

Leprosy, also known as Hansen’s disease, is a chronic infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium leprae. It primarily affects the skin, peripheral nerves, mucous membranes of the upper respiratory tract, and the eyes. Leprosy is characterized by a range of symptoms ranging from mild to severe and can lead to significant disabilities if left untreated.

It is primarily transmitted through prolonged and close contact with an infected person who is not receiving treatment. It is not highly contagious and does not spread easily through casual contact like touching or coughing.

Epidemiology

Leprosy is found mainly in tropical and subtropical regions. The highest cases are reported in India, Brazil, and Indonesia. These countries account for a significant proportion of the world’s leprosy burden. The prevalence of leprosy has steadily decreased over the years due to effective treatment and control measures. However, incidence is still reported every year.

The number of new cases detected annually is an important indicator of the disease’s persistence and spread. Leprosy is considered endemic in certain areas where the disease persists at relatively higher rates. These regions often have limited healthcare access and resources, which can contribute to the persistence of the disease.

Leprosy can affect individuals of all ages, but it is more commonly diagnosed in adults than children. There is no significant gender difference in susceptibility to the disease. Many countries have achieved the status of elimination as defined by the WHO, which means that the prevalence of the disease has been reduced to a very low level. However, post-elimination surveillance is necessary to prevent resurgence.

Anatomy

Pathophysiology

Leprosy primarily affects the skin and peripheral nerves. When a person is exposed to M. leprae through prolonged and close contact with an infected individual, the bacteria can enter the body through the respiratory tract. Once inside the body, M. leprae is engulfed by immune cells called macrophages. However, these bacteria can evade the immune system to some extent due to their slow growth rate and the presence of unique cell wall components.

The immune response against M. leprae leads to the formation of granulomas, which are collections of immune cells, including macrophages and lymphocytes. These granulomas can form in various tissues, including the skin, peripheral nerves, and mucous membranes. Leprosy’s impact on peripheral nerves is a significant aspect of its pathophysiology.

The bacteria can directly infect nerve cells or damage them indirectly due to the inflammatory response. In advanced cases, nerve damage leads to sensory loss, muscle weakness, and potential deformities. In lepromatous leprosy, the bacteria can spread to various organs and tissues, including the liver, spleen, and bone marrow, leading to systemic involvement.

Etiology

Mycobacterium leprae is the main causative agent of leprosy. It was first identified by the Norwegian physician Gerhard Armauer Hansen in 1873. M. leprae is an acid-fast bacillus with a unique cell wall composition that contributes to its ability to evade the immune system and persist in the host for a long time. It primarily affects the skin and peripheral nerves.

While exposure to the bacteria is necessary for developing leprosy, not all exposed individuals become infected. Genetic susceptibility plays a role; certain genetic factors can make individuals prone to developing the disease. Additionally, the individual’s immune response plays a crucial role in determining the clinical course of the infection and the development of various forms of leprosy.

Environmental and socioeconomic factors, such as living conditions, access to healthcare, and nutritional status, can also influence susceptibility to leprosy. People living in poverty, with limited access to clean water and sanitation, and in close contact with infected individuals are at a higher risk.

Genetics

Prognostic Factors

The prognosis of leprosy varies depending on several factors, including the form of leprosy, the timing of diagnosis, the effectiveness of treatment, and the individual’s overall health. With early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, the prognosis for individuals with leprosy is generally favorable.

Clinical History

Clinical History

Leprosy presents a spectrum of symptoms that can be categorized into two main types: tuberculoid and lepromatous. Tuberculoid leprosy is milder and characterized by well-defined skin lesions, numbness or loss of sensation in affected areas, and potential nerve damage. Lepromatous leprosy is more severe and can lead to widespread skin lesions, nodules, and nerve damage. The disease can cause disfigurement and loss of fingers, toes, or other extremities in both types.

Lepromatous leprosy is characterized by widespread skin lesions, nodules, and significant involvement of peripheral nerves. These lesions are typically pale, symmetric and may have reduced sensation due to nerve damage. The disease progresses slowly, and without proper treatment, it can lead to deformities and disabilities. The presence of nodules, particularly in cooler areas of the body like the earlobes and face, is a distinct feature of lepromatous leprosy.

These nodules are often painless and can contribute to facial disfigurement. Peripheral nerves are commonly affected in lepromatous leprosy, leading to sensory loss, muscle weakness, and potential deformities. The skin in affected areas may become thickened due to the infiltration of immune cells and the presence of bacteria.

Leprosy can also affect the upper respiratory tract, leading to symptoms such as nasal congestion, nosebleeds, and crusting. The onset of lepromatous leprosy is insidious, with symptoms gradually emerging over a period of several years. Patients may not notice significant changes in the early stages as the disease progresses slowly.

Physical Examination

Physical Examination

The Ridley-Jopling classification system comprehensively encompasses the entire spectrum of clinical features in leprosy. It spans from an intense immune response with limited tuberculoid organisms to a milder response characterized by a higher count of multibacillary cells. This classification system integrates biopsy, cutaneous and neurologic outcomes to gauge the degree of immune response elicited.

Initial lesion presentations often manifest as broad-based perineural infiltrates wherein acid-fast bacilli can be potentially ascertained. In instances where clear diagnostic criteria haven’t yet been formed, cases are categorized as indeterminate. These indeterminate cases often manifest in children and exhibit spontaneous resolution.

It’s important to note that this classification is suggested for application when biopsy results confirm leprosy but without significant progression to a specific point on the severity spectrum. As the disease advances, clinical manifestations can intensify, including symptoms such as weakness with claw fingers, loss of eyebrows and eyelashes, facial paralysis, and even a perforated nasal septum. The severity of these manifestations is influenced by factors like the extent of nerve involvement, the specific classification type, and the presence of active immune responses.

Nerve involvement becomes apparent early in leprosy’s progression, manifesting as a general reduction in sensation within the lesions. Minimizing injury to peripheral nerves is a primary objective, and a thorough assessment of these nerves is critical for accurate evaluation. Neuropathy’s onset is closely linked to the decline in sensory perception, although pain might sometimes emerge later in the disease’s course.

Age group

Associated comorbidity

Associated activity

Acuity of presentation

Differential Diagnoses

Differential Diagnoses

Annular Psoriasis

Mycosis fungoides

Cutaneous leishmaniasis

Neurofibromatosis

Laboratory Studies

Imaging Studies

Procedures

Histologic Findings

Staging

Treatment Paradigm

Tuberculoid Disease

The standard treatment approach for leprosy typically involves using multidrug therapy (MDT) to mitigate the risk of microbial resistance. MDT has proven efficacy against M. leprae, leading to a rapid transition of patients into a non-infectious condition. The application of MDT concurrently diminishes the likelihood of developing drug resistance. In 1982, the World Health Organization issued a guideline suggesting the utilization of dapsone and rifampin for the treatment of tuberculoid leprosy.

Families of individuals affected by leprosy should undergo an annual assessment for a minimum of 5 years, during which they should be advised to promptly seek medical attention if they notice any unusual skin or neurological alterations indicative of leprosy. BCG vaccination has demonstrated effectiveness in guarding against leprosy, providing 50% protection with a single dose, while a double dose offers greater safeguarding. In regions where leprosy is extensively prevalent, BCG vaccination is administered at birth as a preventive measure.

Lepromatous Disease

The treatment regimen for lepromatous leprosy typically involves a combination of medications, including dapsone and rifampin, with clofazimine being the preferred choice for this severe disease. The synergistic effect of these drugs has proven to be highly effective. Traditional leprosy therapy demonstrates efficacy against both M. leprae and M. lepromatosis. The treatment strategy endorsed by the United States National Hansen’s Disease Program (NHDP) is widely accepted as the standard approach.

Some advocates propose the adoption of daily, rather than monthly, rifampin doses along with prolonged treatment durations. Upon initiation of therapy, the initial erythema and induration of lesions generally subside within several months. However, the complete resolution of lesions with cutaneous involvement might take several years. The timeline varies based on factors such as the extent of lesions and the severity of the infection, making each case unique.

by Stage

by Modality

Chemotherapy

Radiation Therapy

Surgical Interventions

Hormone Therapy

Immunotherapy

Hyperthermia

Photodynamic Therapy

Stem Cell Transplant

Targeted Therapy

Palliative Care

Medication

 

dapsone 

100 mg orally each day, combined with other antileprosy agents



clofazimine 

Indicated for Dapsone-sensitive multibacillary leprosy The recommended treatment for Dapsone-sensitive multibacillary leprosy is to administer 50mg of dapsone orally once a day along with 100mg/day of dapsone and 600mg/day of rifampicin
This treatment should be given for a minimum of 2 years and continued until negative skin smears are obtained
Once this occurs, monotherapy with an appropriate antileprosy drug may be started
It's important not to exceed a dose of 100mg/day to ensure it is well tolerated



 

dapsone 

1-2 mg/kg orally each day
Do not exceed 100 mg/day when combined with antileprosy agents
Administer the dose for a minimum of 3 years by combining it with a multidrug regimen like rifampin



 

Media Gallary

References

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Leprosy

Updated : August 24, 2023




Leprosy, also known as Hansen’s disease, is a chronic infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium leprae. It primarily affects the skin, peripheral nerves, mucous membranes of the upper respiratory tract, and the eyes. Leprosy is characterized by a range of symptoms ranging from mild to severe and can lead to significant disabilities if left untreated.

It is primarily transmitted through prolonged and close contact with an infected person who is not receiving treatment. It is not highly contagious and does not spread easily through casual contact like touching or coughing.

Leprosy is found mainly in tropical and subtropical regions. The highest cases are reported in India, Brazil, and Indonesia. These countries account for a significant proportion of the world’s leprosy burden. The prevalence of leprosy has steadily decreased over the years due to effective treatment and control measures. However, incidence is still reported every year.

The number of new cases detected annually is an important indicator of the disease’s persistence and spread. Leprosy is considered endemic in certain areas where the disease persists at relatively higher rates. These regions often have limited healthcare access and resources, which can contribute to the persistence of the disease.

Leprosy can affect individuals of all ages, but it is more commonly diagnosed in adults than children. There is no significant gender difference in susceptibility to the disease. Many countries have achieved the status of elimination as defined by the WHO, which means that the prevalence of the disease has been reduced to a very low level. However, post-elimination surveillance is necessary to prevent resurgence.

Leprosy primarily affects the skin and peripheral nerves. When a person is exposed to M. leprae through prolonged and close contact with an infected individual, the bacteria can enter the body through the respiratory tract. Once inside the body, M. leprae is engulfed by immune cells called macrophages. However, these bacteria can evade the immune system to some extent due to their slow growth rate and the presence of unique cell wall components.

The immune response against M. leprae leads to the formation of granulomas, which are collections of immune cells, including macrophages and lymphocytes. These granulomas can form in various tissues, including the skin, peripheral nerves, and mucous membranes. Leprosy’s impact on peripheral nerves is a significant aspect of its pathophysiology.

The bacteria can directly infect nerve cells or damage them indirectly due to the inflammatory response. In advanced cases, nerve damage leads to sensory loss, muscle weakness, and potential deformities. In lepromatous leprosy, the bacteria can spread to various organs and tissues, including the liver, spleen, and bone marrow, leading to systemic involvement.

Mycobacterium leprae is the main causative agent of leprosy. It was first identified by the Norwegian physician Gerhard Armauer Hansen in 1873. M. leprae is an acid-fast bacillus with a unique cell wall composition that contributes to its ability to evade the immune system and persist in the host for a long time. It primarily affects the skin and peripheral nerves.

While exposure to the bacteria is necessary for developing leprosy, not all exposed individuals become infected. Genetic susceptibility plays a role; certain genetic factors can make individuals prone to developing the disease. Additionally, the individual’s immune response plays a crucial role in determining the clinical course of the infection and the development of various forms of leprosy.

Environmental and socioeconomic factors, such as living conditions, access to healthcare, and nutritional status, can also influence susceptibility to leprosy. People living in poverty, with limited access to clean water and sanitation, and in close contact with infected individuals are at a higher risk.

The prognosis of leprosy varies depending on several factors, including the form of leprosy, the timing of diagnosis, the effectiveness of treatment, and the individual’s overall health. With early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, the prognosis for individuals with leprosy is generally favorable.

Clinical History

Leprosy presents a spectrum of symptoms that can be categorized into two main types: tuberculoid and lepromatous. Tuberculoid leprosy is milder and characterized by well-defined skin lesions, numbness or loss of sensation in affected areas, and potential nerve damage. Lepromatous leprosy is more severe and can lead to widespread skin lesions, nodules, and nerve damage. The disease can cause disfigurement and loss of fingers, toes, or other extremities in both types.

Lepromatous leprosy is characterized by widespread skin lesions, nodules, and significant involvement of peripheral nerves. These lesions are typically pale, symmetric and may have reduced sensation due to nerve damage. The disease progresses slowly, and without proper treatment, it can lead to deformities and disabilities. The presence of nodules, particularly in cooler areas of the body like the earlobes and face, is a distinct feature of lepromatous leprosy.

These nodules are often painless and can contribute to facial disfigurement. Peripheral nerves are commonly affected in lepromatous leprosy, leading to sensory loss, muscle weakness, and potential deformities. The skin in affected areas may become thickened due to the infiltration of immune cells and the presence of bacteria.

Leprosy can also affect the upper respiratory tract, leading to symptoms such as nasal congestion, nosebleeds, and crusting. The onset of lepromatous leprosy is insidious, with symptoms gradually emerging over a period of several years. Patients may not notice significant changes in the early stages as the disease progresses slowly.

Physical Examination

The Ridley-Jopling classification system comprehensively encompasses the entire spectrum of clinical features in leprosy. It spans from an intense immune response with limited tuberculoid organisms to a milder response characterized by a higher count of multibacillary cells. This classification system integrates biopsy, cutaneous and neurologic outcomes to gauge the degree of immune response elicited.

Initial lesion presentations often manifest as broad-based perineural infiltrates wherein acid-fast bacilli can be potentially ascertained. In instances where clear diagnostic criteria haven’t yet been formed, cases are categorized as indeterminate. These indeterminate cases often manifest in children and exhibit spontaneous resolution.

It’s important to note that this classification is suggested for application when biopsy results confirm leprosy but without significant progression to a specific point on the severity spectrum. As the disease advances, clinical manifestations can intensify, including symptoms such as weakness with claw fingers, loss of eyebrows and eyelashes, facial paralysis, and even a perforated nasal septum. The severity of these manifestations is influenced by factors like the extent of nerve involvement, the specific classification type, and the presence of active immune responses.

Nerve involvement becomes apparent early in leprosy’s progression, manifesting as a general reduction in sensation within the lesions. Minimizing injury to peripheral nerves is a primary objective, and a thorough assessment of these nerves is critical for accurate evaluation. Neuropathy’s onset is closely linked to the decline in sensory perception, although pain might sometimes emerge later in the disease’s course.

Differential Diagnoses

Annular Psoriasis

Mycosis fungoides

Cutaneous leishmaniasis

Neurofibromatosis

Tuberculoid Disease

The standard treatment approach for leprosy typically involves using multidrug therapy (MDT) to mitigate the risk of microbial resistance. MDT has proven efficacy against M. leprae, leading to a rapid transition of patients into a non-infectious condition. The application of MDT concurrently diminishes the likelihood of developing drug resistance. In 1982, the World Health Organization issued a guideline suggesting the utilization of dapsone and rifampin for the treatment of tuberculoid leprosy.

Families of individuals affected by leprosy should undergo an annual assessment for a minimum of 5 years, during which they should be advised to promptly seek medical attention if they notice any unusual skin or neurological alterations indicative of leprosy. BCG vaccination has demonstrated effectiveness in guarding against leprosy, providing 50% protection with a single dose, while a double dose offers greater safeguarding. In regions where leprosy is extensively prevalent, BCG vaccination is administered at birth as a preventive measure.

Lepromatous Disease

The treatment regimen for lepromatous leprosy typically involves a combination of medications, including dapsone and rifampin, with clofazimine being the preferred choice for this severe disease. The synergistic effect of these drugs has proven to be highly effective. Traditional leprosy therapy demonstrates efficacy against both M. leprae and M. lepromatosis. The treatment strategy endorsed by the United States National Hansen’s Disease Program (NHDP) is widely accepted as the standard approach.

Some advocates propose the adoption of daily, rather than monthly, rifampin doses along with prolonged treatment durations. Upon initiation of therapy, the initial erythema and induration of lesions generally subside within several months. However, the complete resolution of lesions with cutaneous involvement might take several years. The timeline varies based on factors such as the extent of lesions and the severity of the infection, making each case unique.

dapsone 

100 mg orally each day, combined with other antileprosy agents



clofazimine 

Indicated for Dapsone-sensitive multibacillary leprosy The recommended treatment for Dapsone-sensitive multibacillary leprosy is to administer 50mg of dapsone orally once a day along with 100mg/day of dapsone and 600mg/day of rifampicin
This treatment should be given for a minimum of 2 years and continued until negative skin smears are obtained
Once this occurs, monotherapy with an appropriate antileprosy drug may be started
It's important not to exceed a dose of 100mg/day to ensure it is well tolerated



dapsone 

1-2 mg/kg orally each day
Do not exceed 100 mg/day when combined with antileprosy agents
Administer the dose for a minimum of 3 years by combining it with a multidrug regimen like rifampin



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