Leprosy Facts

• Leprosy

Leprosy is a complex infectious disease caused by an infection with the bacteria Mycobacterium leprae. This eMedTV article discusses the disease in detail, including its history, transmission methods, the various types, treatments, and prevalence.

• Cause of Leprosy

This eMedTV article discusses the cause of leprosy in detail (the bacteria Mycobacterium leprae) and explains factors that can affect how the bacteria are transmitted, such as genetics and environmental conditions.

• Mycobacterium Leprae

Leprosy is caused by bacteria called Mycobacterium leprae. This selection from the eMedTV Web library provides an overview of the bacteria, including history, possible transmission methods, recent statistics, and more.

• How Leprosy Spreads

Factors discussed in this eMedTV article that may influence how leprosy spreads include genetics, the degree of susceptibility, and the extent of exposure. This article also looks at the likelihood of transmitting leprosy to household contacts.

• Symptoms of Leprosy

People with possible signs and symptoms of leprosy, as this eMedTV resource explains, may experience a symmetrical skin rash, muscle stiffness, or eye problems. Symptoms can also vary based on the type of leprosy a person has, among other factors.

• Leprosy Diagnosis

This eMedTV article explains the process doctors use to make a leprosy diagnosis. For example, the doctor begins with a physical exam and questions about the patient's medical history. If needed, a skin biopsy is performed to check for the bacteria.

• Treatments for Leprosy

This eMedTV resource discusses various treatments for leprosy, such as antibiotics and supportive care. It also explains possible reactions to treatment, prognosis with treatment, and why antibiotics are often used in combination.

• Effects of Leprosy

This eMedTV article discusses the effects of leprosy in detail (such as muscle weakness, a skin rash, and enlarged nerves). The article also explains factors that can affect the type of symptoms a person has and their severity.

• Cures for Leprosy

This eMedTV article lists the most common antibiotics used as cures for leprosy: rifampin, dapsone, and clofazimine. It also explains the success rate with these drugs and what happened to people prior to their development.

• How Do You Prevent Leprosy?

How do you prevent leprosy? As this segment of the eMedTV archives explains, the best way to prevent leprosy is to have yearly examinations -- especially if you live with someone who already has the disease.

• Leprosy in the United States

There are 200 to 250 new reported cases of leprosy in the United States each year. This eMedTV page explains how 175 of these are new cases diagnosed for the first time. The page also lists the states and populations where the disease is often found.