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Consultancy Corner: Early detection of leprosy can save nerve cells
Leprosy, or Hansens disease, as it is now called, is an infection known to mankind for several centuries. It is caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium leprae. There are lots of research data to show all aspects of this infection. Early detection of leprosy could prevent long term nerve damage and result in full recovery.
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This infection is commonly seen in the warmer climatic zones, and India accounts for a significant burden of this disease- about 63%. Infections are mainly in humans.Â
It takes a long time to transmit the disease even from an infected person and is usually from respiratory secretions. Spending time with a patient affected by Hansen’s disease is not a significant risk.
The early stages will show up as a patch on the skin. Typically, the patch is of less colour than the rest of the skin. This may be single or multiple. The most important feature is that these patches have less sensation than the skin around it. In such a situation, Hansen’s disease should be suspected.
In patients who have had the disease for quite some time and has not been picked up, and in those with a poor immune system like HIV/AIDS, organ transplant, etc, it may spread to the nerves and cause problems.Â
Nerves affected tend to be very thick and can be identified by simple examination. This can lead to loss of sensation or even weakness of the affected hand or foot. Over time, this can lead to loss of the fingers, giving rise to the deformity that many of us may have seen.
Evaluating a patient involves a full examination of the patient to look for such patches and examination of the nerves close to the skin.Â
Skin smears are done- these are a simple procedure that is done in the outpatient. Rarely, a skin biopsy may be required. If nerve involvement is suspected, the doctor may decide to do additional testing to assess the severity of the same.
With sustained efforts of the Government in detection and treatment, the number of patients infected has fallen markedly. Unfortunately, doctors, today are less exposed to this disease, and may not be able to identify it promptly.Â
Furthermore, this disease has also faded from public imagination and may not be considered while seeing a doctor for skin problems.
Early detection could prevent long term nerve damage and result in full recovery. Over the years, the treatment has become easily available, and duration could be as short as just 6 months.
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