Article
Article
Leprosy
Article By:
Jacobson, Robert Department of Health and Human Services, Gillis W. Long Hansen's Disease Center, Carville, Louisiana.
Last reviewed:June 2021
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1036/1097-8542.378000
A chronic infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium leprae that primarily affects the skin and peripheral nerves and, to a lesser extent, the eyes and mucous membranes. Leprosy, or Hansen's disease, is a long-term contagious disease that has been known for thousands of years. The causative agent of leprosy is Mycobacterium leprae. Infection by this mycobacterium destroys the nerves of the extremities and produces skin discoloration and lumps on the skin (see illustration). If the disease is allowed to progress (often for many years), paralysis and disfigurement may occur. In addition, eye complications, including some that could lead to blindness, may result in cases where facial nerves are affected. See also: Bacteria; Bacteriology; Eye disorders; Infectious disease; Medical bacteriology; Mycobacterial diseases; Nerve; Nervous system (vertebrate); Nervous system disorders; Skin; Skin disorders
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