What are the Symptoms of Leprosy?
September 7, 2023 | by Sravani Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Leprosy, also known as Hansen’s disease, is a chronic infectious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium leprae. Leprosy primarily affects the skin, peripheral nerves, mucosal surfaces of the upper respiratory tract, and the eyes. The symptoms of leprosy can vary widely depending on the form and stage of the disease. Common symptoms of leprosy may include:
- Skin Lesions:
- Leprosy often begins with skin lesions that may be flat, pale, or reddish in color. These patches may be slightly raised and hypoesthetic (numb to touch), meaning they lack sensation.
- Hypoesthesia or Anesthesia:
- Numbness or loss of sensation in the skin, often in the affected patches or areas. People with leprosy may injure themselves without realizing it due to the lack of sensation.
- Thickened, Elevated Patches of Skin:
- Thickened or elevated skin patches that are often clearly defined and may appear shiny, dry, or scaly.
- Loss of Eyelashes or Eyebrows:
- Leprosy can cause loss of eyelashes or eyebrows, particularly in the more advanced stages.
- Nasal Congestion or Epistaxis:
- Nasal congestion or recurrent nosebleeds, which can be a sign of lepromatous leprosy affecting the nasal mucosa.
- Nodules and Nerve Enlargement:
- Nodules or lumps on the skin, especially on the face and ears, accompanied by nerve enlargement and tenderness. These nodules can damage nerves and cause loss of function.
- Muscle Weakness or Paralysis:
- Weakness or paralysis of muscles, particularly in the hands or feet, resulting from nerve damage.
- Ulcers and Wounds:
- The lack of sensation can lead to injuries, ulcers, and wounds that may become infected and heal slowly.
- Eye Problems:
- Dryness, reduced blinking, corneal ulcers, and other eye problems, which can occur in lepromatous leprosy.
- Enlarged Lymph Nodes:
- Enlarged lymph nodes, particularly those near affected skin areas or nerves.
- Deformities and Disabilities:
- Long-term untreated leprosy can lead to deformities, disability, and loss of function, especially in the hands, feet, and face.
It’s essential to note that leprosy has various forms and can range from paucibacillary (few bacteria) to multibacillary (many bacteria), influencing the clinical presentation and progression of the disease. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are crucial to prevent complications, halt disease progression, and minimize disability. Leprosy is curable with multi-drug therapy, and complications can be prevented with timely intervention and proper care. If you suspect you may have leprosy or have concerns about your symptoms, seek medical attention for a thorough evaluation and diagnosis.