Q. What are the causes of leprosy?
Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.
Leprosy, also known as Hansen's disease, is a chronic bacterial infection caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium leprae. The exact mode of transmission of leprosy is not fully understood, but it is believed to occur through prolonged close contact with an infected person. Here are the primary causes and factors associated with leprosy:
Mycobacterium leprae Infection: Leprosy is primarily caused by infection with Mycobacterium leprae, a slow-growing bacterium. It primarily affects the skin, peripheral nerves, and mucosal surfaces of the respiratory tract.
Prolonged Close Contact: Leprosy is not highly contagious and does not spread easily. It is thought to be transmitted from person to person through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. However, prolonged and close contact with an untreated infected person is generally necessary for transmission to occur.
Genetic Susceptibility: Some individuals may be genetically predisposed to leprosy. Certain genetic factors can make individuals more susceptible to the disease. However, having these genetic factors does not guarantee that a person will develop leprosy.
Immune System Response: The immune response of an individual plays a crucial role in determining whether they develop leprosy after exposure to the bacterium. Individuals with weaker immune systems, such as those with malnutrition or other concurrent infections like HIV, are more susceptible to developing the disease.
Environmental Factors: Environmental factors, such as living in crowded and unsanitary conditions with poor access to healthcare, can increase the risk of leprosy transmission and progression. Socioeconomic factors can also influence a person's vulnerability to the disease.
It's important to note that leprosy is a curable disease, and early diagnosis and treatment with multidrug therapy (MDT) can effectively cure the infection and prevent further transmission. Leprosy is no longer the stigmatized and incurable condition it once was, thanks to medical advances and improved understanding of the disease. Timely intervention and public health initiatives have significantly reduced the global burden of leprosy in recent years.
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