|
What is Leprosy? Leprosy is an infectious disease characterized by disfiguring skin lesions, peripheral nerve damage, and progressive debilitation. Leprosy is common in many countries in the world, and in temperate, tropical, and subtropical climates. Approximately 100 cases per year are diagnosed in the U.S. Most cases are limited to the South, California, Hawaii, and U.S. island possessions. Leprosy is also called Hansen's disease. What Causes Leprosy? Leprosy is caused by the organism Mycobacteriumleprae. Symptoms of Leprosy? The most common symptoms of leprosy are:
How is Leprosy Transmitted? Leprosy is a difficult disease to transmit and has a long incubation period. Children are more susceptible than adults to contracting the disease. Types of Leprosy? There are two main types of leprosy: tuberculoid and lepromatous. Both tyes of leprosy produce lesions on the skin, but the lepromatous form is most severe, producing large disfiguring nodules. Can Leprosy be Treated? Yes. Treatments are aimed to eliminate the microorganism that causes leprosy and to reduce the symptoms. Common treatments include:
Complications of Leprosy? Leprosy can eventually cause cosmetic disfigurement, nerve damage in the extremities, sensory loss in the skin and muscle weakness. People with long-term leprosy may lose the use of their hands or feet due to repeated injury resulting from lack of sensation.
|
| ||||||
|
Health Topic: Tummy Tuck Surgery: What No One Tells You Medicare Part D: Everything you need to know Worst date story: "Sobbing and scandal " How to choose the best weight loss program | |||||||
|
Information obtained from MamasHealth.com should not be used as a substitute for professional medical care or attention by a qualified practitioner, nor should it be inferred as such. Always check with your doctor if you have any questions or concerns about a specific condition.
Use of this web site constitutes acceptance of the Terms
of Use. If you want a review of your product featured on MamasHealth.com, let us know. ©2000 - 2008 MamasHealth.com. All rights reserved | |||||||