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Leprosy
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- Leprosy is an
infection caused by the acid-fast (i.e., retains stains by
dyes) bacterium Mycobacterium leprae. It is probably
transmitted person-to-person via the respiratory tract
(respiratory droplets). Contact with armadillos and
possibly mosquitoes and bedbugs are also possible methods of
infection.
- The disease usually results from prolonged exposure during childhood and occurs in tropical and subtropical areas of Asia, Africa, Central and South America, Pacific regions, and southern USA. Leprosy is divided
into two types: lepromatous type, which occurs in persons
with a deficient cellular immune system; and tuberculoid
type (normal cellular immune system). The lepromatous
type is more
aggressive.
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- Pale, raised, nodular, or red skin
lesions 1-10cm
- These lesions may be anesthetic
(lack feeling), have unusual sensations, or be painful.
- The nose, eyes, throat, testicles,
and superficial nerves may be affected with similar lesions.
- Ulcers on fingers or toes -- may
cause them to shorten.
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- Skin scrapings show acid-fast (a
type of laboratory stain) rodlike bacteria.
- Biopsy has typical histologic
(microscopic) appearance. It will also be possible to
divide the two types:
- Lepromatous
- Tuberculoid
- These bacteria will not grow in the
lab.
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- Three-drug regimen: Dapsone, clofazimine,
and rifampin. Treatment is usually continued for five
years because relapses are common.
- Indeterminate tuberculoid Leprosy -- Dapsone and rifampin for six months is recommended.
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- Liver enlargement and kidney failure
may occur with long-standing
disease.
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