Top Health Tips on Managing Leprosy

Prevention of leprosy: Leprosy is caused by the bacterial infection of Mycobacterium leprae and it is classified into multiple types. Leprosy is communicable through contact with common objects or a person by infected droplets within their nose. It primarily affects mucous membranes and the skin and the nerves on the hands, feet, and in extreme cases may cause disfigurement as well. There are no specific ways to prevent leprosy as no specific correlation between transmission and development has been found so far. Leprosy can happen through one time contact or through contact over extended period of time within the same household. Thus preventive measures will primarily include the following:

Regular checkups by going to the doctor
Ensuring that surfaces are kept clean if you share a household with a leprosy patient
Skin biopsies at regular intervals just to check if you may have contracted the bacteria
If a rash has developed, then it is urgent that you visit the doctor. Earlier the leprosy is detected, quickly it can treated and resolved
Incidences of leprosy have reduced over the last few decades due to improvements in medicine and early detection. This has allowed people to nip the problem in the bud and does not allow it to spread within their bodies or to other people.

Treatment of leprosy: The primary weapon that modern medicine has against leprosy is known as MDT or multidrug therapy. Multidrug therapy is the combination of multiple drugs, which attack the various aspects of leprosy, such as skin problems, nerve damage, loss of sensation, deterioration of skin conditions etc. This is the proven way to not only reduce symptoms, but also cure the problems in the long run.

Some of the drugs in the MDT used are as follows:

Rifampicin and dapsone
Rifampicin and clofazimine and dapsone
Rifampicin, minocycline and ofloxacin
However, the combination will depend on the type of leprosy the person is affected with, such as paucibacillary leprosy or multibacillary leprosy and thus can only be prescribed by the doctor after the thorough and detailed examination.

Leprosy is also known as Hansen s disease. It is a chronic dermatological disorder caused by the bacteria Mycobacterium Leprae. The peripheral nerves and mucosa of the upper respiratory tract are affected by the bacteria. Leprosy starts by the appearance of scaly skin lesions. If not treated in the primary stage, it can progress rapidly and cause permanent damage to the skin. It can damage the eyes, nerves and limbs. Leprosy can be moderately contagious, therefore it is necessary for the patient to be quarantined during the course of the treatment to prevent the spread of disease among other family members.

It has been noticed that after prolonged homeopathy treatment, almost 80% cases have been cured and improved. The patients have recovered senses in their limbs; the wounds have improved and in some cases, miraculously disappeared.

Homeopathy and Leprosy
There have also been cases where patients have responded better to homeopathic treatment than the multi-drug treatment regime that most doctors prescribe to leprosy patients. This could be because homeopathy is the safest and a non-toxic remedy to most diseases that does not complicate the health by causing adverse side effects.

A wonder medicine used for the treatment of leprosy is an anti-syphilitic medicine called Mercurius Solubilis. With an extremely high potency of 200, it is known to be an excellent remedy for leprosy. Homeopathic medicines are selected based on the symptoms. First the treatment is done on the symptoms so as to provide relief as soon as possible. Homeopathic medicines then act on the root cause of the disease, also providing bacterial resistance. It helps to retard the progress of the disease. Along with it, homeopathic medicines also help to reduce lepra reactions, and start reviving the damaged nerves, limbs and skin. It also strengthens the immunity system.

Some combinations of homeopathic and natural medicines used to treat leprosy are:
1. Thuja
2. Sulphur
3. Tuberculinum
4. Calotropis
5. Chaulmoogra oil
6. Elaeis
7. Hydrocotyle
8. Apis

Leprosy is also known as Hansen s disease. It is a chronic dermatological disorder caused by the bacteria Mycobacterium Leprae. The peripheral nerves and mucosa of the upper respiratory tract are affected by the bacteria. Leprosy starts by the appearance of scaly skin lesions. If not treated in the primary stage, it can progress rapidly and cause permanent damage to the skin. It can damage the eyes, nerves and limbs. Leprosy can be moderately contagious, therefore it is necessary for the patient to be quarantined during the course of the treatment to prevent the spread of disease among other family members.

It has been noticed that after prolonged homeopathy treatment, almost 80% cases have been cured and improved. The patients have recovered senses in their limbs; the wounds have improved and in some cases, miraculously disappeared.

Homeopathy and Leprosy
There have also been cases where patients have responded better to homeopathic treatment than the multi-drug treatment regime that most doctors prescribe to leprosy patients. This could be because homeopathy is the safest and a non-toxic remedy to most diseases that does not complicate the health by causing adverse side effects.

A wonder medicine used for the treatment of leprosy is an anti-syphilitic medicine called Mercurius Solubilis. With an extremely high potency of 200, it is known to be an excellent remedy for leprosy. Homeopathic medicines are selected based on the symptoms. First the treatment is done on the symptoms so as to provide relief as soon as possible. Homeopathic medicines then act on the root cause of the disease, also providing bacterial resistance. It helps to retard the progress of the disease. Along with it, homeopathic medicines also help to reduce lepra reactions, and start reviving the damaged nerves, limbs and skin. It also strengthens the immunity system.

Some combinations of homeopathic and natural medicines used to treat leprosy are:
1. Thuja
2. Sulphur
3. Tuberculinum
4. Calotropis
5. Chaulmoogra oil
6. Elaeis
7. Hydrocotyle
8. Apis

Once feared to be highly contagious and fatal, leprosy is today a disease that can be treated and even cured. Leprosy or Hansen s disease is a bacterial infection caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium leprae and affects the peripheral nervous system and skin. Leprosy has been categorized into two types tuberculoid and lepromatous with the latter being more severe. Both these categories have been further subdivided into more categories. Skin lesions are the most prominent symptom of leprosy. If left untreated, leprosy can cause permanent damage to the skin, nervous system, limbs and eyes.

Early diagnosis of this disease makes treatment easier. Apart from antibiotics, homeopathic medicines are also effective when it comes to treating leprosy. Homeopathy is a holistic form of treatment that addresses not only the symptoms of the disease but also the root cause of the infection. One of the biggest advantages of homeopathy is that it has negligible side effects. When it comes to leprosy, homeopathy can be used to reduce inflammation and pain, drain sores and promote suppuration. It can also strengthen the immune system to prevent recurrent sores and boils. Some of the homeopathic remedies that may be helpful are:

Sulphur: If the patient has a tendency to suffer from eruptions, curvature of the spine, wrinkled and flabby skin and has a voracious appetite triggered by diseased glands, sulphur is effective. The symptoms may also be aggravated by washing and the affected area may itch more on scratching. There is a tendency for the folds of the skin to be sore.

Graphites: If the patient has swollen lymph glands, mesenteric glands and prominent skin sores, this medicine is useful. It also treats moist eruptions that bleed or ooze tenacious discharge before turning into scabs on the scalp, face, joints and in the folds of the skin. The patient may experience an absence of sweat and hair fall.

Calcarea Carbonica and Silicea: The combination of these two medicines help in treating a patient who suffers from a swollen abdomen and has open fontanelles. Excessive sweating is another symptom treated by Calcarea carbonica and Silicea.

Rhus Toxicodendron: This is prescribed in cases where the patient has a reddish skin that is covered with vesicles and suffers from intense itchiness.

Cantharis: It is used when the patient has large blisters on the skin accompanied by intense burning. The blisters may look like typical burn blisters.

Croton Tiglium: It is used to treat small blisters that itch terribly and form pustules that dry into yellowish scabs.

Although homeopathy is considered safe and free from side effects, it should not be used to self-medicate.

Looking for top dermatologist in Bangalore to treat your skin problems. These top dermatologist in Bangalore are considered to be best doctors when it comes to treating any kind of skin or hair problems like hair fall, hair transplant, acne, pimple problems and various anti-aging treatments like botox, fillers. Below are the top 10 dermatologist in Bangalore:

1. Dr. Ramya M N

MBBS, MD - Dermatology , Venereology & Leprosy

Consultation fees: 300

Dr Ramya M N in 4 years of her practice has made to best dermatologist in Bangalore. She currently practices at her own clinic Healios Cosmoderma. Her areas of expertise are derma roller treatment, anti-ageing treatment, vampire face lift treatment and bleaching treatment and treating various problems with hair.

2. Dr. Rasya Dixit

MD - Dermatology, MBBS

Consultation fees: 500

Dr. Rasya Dixit,runs her own practice at Dr Dixit Cosmetic Dermatology and has more than 16 years of experience and expertise in this field. After pursuing her MD, she further trained herself in aesthetic plastic surgeons. Years of international experience, she has specialised in botox, fillers, laser hair reduction, laser skin rejuvenation. She keeps herself up to date with latest technologies and new advancements in the treatment.

3. Kaya Skin Clinic- HRBR Layout, Bangalore

Consultation fees: 500

Kaya Ltd is more than 15 years old and has centers all across India as well as in the Middle East. Kaya offers a number of services and when it comes to hair and skin problems in Bangalore, it is considered as one of the best. They specialise in laser treatment, medical cosmetologist, breast lift/augmentation/reduction.

4. Dr. Vignessh Raj

FRGUHS, DDVL, MBBS

Consultation fees: 400-450

Dr. Vignessh Raj is a reputed dermatologist with 10 years of practice. He is a professional member of the Indian Association of Dermatologists Venereologists and Leprologists (IADVL). His areas of specialization are Anti-Ageing Treatment, Chemical Peel Treatment, Derma Roller Treatment, Hair Mesotherapy Treatment, Restylane Vital Treatment, Vampire Face Lift Treatment, Acne Treatment, Botox Treatment, Wart Removal, Electrocautery Therapy, Collagen Induction Therapy, Atopic Dermatitis Treatment, Skin Rejuvenation, and Facial Hair Transplant. He is associated with multiple clinics and hospitals.

5. Dr. Prem Kishore Srivastava

MBBS, MD - Dermatology , Venereology & Leprosy

Consultation fees: 300

Dr. Prem, has 36 years of experience and is associated with many hospitals and clinics across Bangalore. He has treated many cases of skin problems using procedures like chemical peeling, anti-aging treatment, derma roller treatment, laser treatment for tattoo and facial hair removal. He is a member of many national and international associations.

6. Dr. Sankeerth Vijayakumar

MBBS, MD - Dermatology, Venereology & Leprosy, FRGUHS (Cosmetology)

Consultation fees: 400-450

Dr. Sankeerth Vijayakumar is a consultant dermatologist and a cosmetologist with 8 years of practice.He is currently associated with Dermaville Skin Clinic and Fostr Healthcare and Diagnostics, Bangalore. He is academically very sound and has presented many papers on national and international level and is member of many associations. His areas of keen interest are general dermatology, acne treatment, anti-hair fall PRP therapy, hair transplant, lasers for scars/ pigmentation and hair reduction, botox, fillers, thread lifts, chemical peels, and skin rejuvenation.

7. Dr. Rajeshwari K.A Bhat

DNB, MD, MBBS

Consultation fees: 400

Dr. Rajeshwari K.A Bhat is a reputed dermatologist with 13 years of practice and is a member of the Indian Association of Dermatologists Venereologists and Leprologists (IADVL) and the Association of Cutaneous Surgeons of India (ACSI). She has several years of experience from different parts of India and has treated thousands of patient. She specialises in various treatments like Derma Roller Treatment, Hair Mesotherapy Treatment, Bleaching Treatment, Glycolic Peel Treatment, Dimple Creation, Lactic Peel Treatment, Photo Facial Treatment, and Electrocautery Therapy. She is also considered very good at Collagen Induction Therapy and Skin Refinement Treatment.

8. Dr. M.K Shetty

MBBS, DVD, MD - Dermatology

Consultation fees: 750

Dr. Shetty has been practicing from 32 years and currently practices at Dr Shetty's Medical & Aesthetics Skin Solutions Pvt Ltd, Bangalore. One of his greatest achievement is being among the early pioneers in the use of Lasers in Dermatology and Cosmetology in India. He is known for use of advanced procedures and techniques for hair transplant. Apart from hair disorders, he is also known for his anti-ageing treatments using lasers.

9. Dr. Rashmi Ravindra

MD - Dermatology, MBBS

Consultation fees: 350

Dr. Rashmi Ravindra has 16 years of experience and is considered to be excellent at Facial Rejuvenation Treatment, treating Vitiligo, Eczema and Acne. She is currently affiliated to Meenakshi Cosmo Derma Care. She is associated with some of the most reputed institutes and associations in India.

10. Dr. Shuba Dharmana

MBBS, Diploma of the Faculty of Family Planning (DFFP), Diploma in Practical Dermatology, MRCGP

Consultation fees: 750

Dr. Shuba Dharmana is amongst the most popular name in the field. She has several awards in her 19 years of career including Woman Entrepreneur of the Year 2012 . She is the founder and CEO of Lejeune Group of Medspas where she currently practices. She expertises in anti-ageing treatment, aesthetic medicine and Hair Transplantation. She has opened few clinics in different parts of London and UK and is a visiting consultant at different clinics at Bangalore, Vizag and Hyderabad.

1. Dr. Madhavi Pudi
D.N.B. (Dermatology), M.B.B.S., Diploma in Trichology-Cosmetology
11 Years of Experience 300 - 500 at the 500 online
Dr . Madhavi Pudi is a well-known dermatologist in Hyderabad. She has an M.B.B.S., a D.N.D. in Dermatology, Venereology, and Leprosy, and certificates in Trichology and Cosmetology from the Hair Research Society of India (H.R.S.I.), the C.S.I., the A.C.S.I., and the A.A.D.

In addition, she took home the top prize at the Rao Bahadur Memorial Prize Presentation Contest for her work on the topic of the most recent advances in our understanding of the dermoscopic features of psoriasis and lichen planus. Additionally, she is a member of I.A.D.V.L., I.A.D.V.L., and C.S.I.

2. Dr. Venu Kumari
M.B.B.S. and M.D. in Venereology and Leprosy
16 Years of Experience 500 - 700 at the Clinic 500 online
Dr. Venu is a well-known dermatologist, and her happy patients say that the results of her treatments show how well she does her job. She got her M.B.B.S. and then her M.D. She chose to specialize in skin, V.D., and leprosy.

She got the prestigious Healthcare Excellence Award and was named Best Dermatologist because she did well as a dermatologist. She's a good Laser Specialist, Medical Cosmetologist, Hair Transplant Surgeon, Immunodermatologist, and Dermatologist/Cosmetologist.

She is a Medical Director at Dr. Venus Institute of Skin & Hair and has also been awarded the Health Care Excellence Award for Best Dermatologist. She is a part of the Cosmetology Society of India (C.D.S.I.) and the I.A.D.V.L.

3. Dr. Raghuram Reddy
M.B.B.S., MD, Dermatology
12 Years of Experience 400 - 500 at the Clinic 400 online
Dr. Raghuram Reddy is a doctor-magician for his patients. He treats diseases that affect the skin and hair or cause side effects and symptoms that cause abnormalities in these areas. If you live in Hyderabad and are experiencing skin problems, contact Dr. Raghuram Reddy, a well-known dermatologist. He is also a member of the Indian Association of Dermatologists, Venereologists & Leprologists (I.A.D.V.L.), and, as an experienced dermatologist, he is counted among the top list of them.

4. Dr. Ravindranath Reddy
Diploma in Medical Cosmetology, M.B.B.S.
44 years experience 500 at clinic 350 online
Everyone needs a trusted doctor like Dr. Ravindranath Reddy. In Hyderabad, he is a skilled and well-known dermatologist. With 44 years of experience as a dermatologist, he treats his patients with patience and surety. He also holds a Diploma in Medical Cosmetology, in addition to his M.B.B.S. Currently working at his clinic called Clinic-2000 in Himayat Nagar, Hyderabad. His clinic offers medical cosmetology, laser treatments, obesity therapy, bariatric therapy, chemical peels, a facelift, a diet, and an obesity consultant.

Furthermore, he is doing well as a dermatologist, cosmetologist, dietitian, or nutritionist. He has been awarded the No. 1 obesity clinic. He is also a member of the American Society of Bariatric Physicians, the American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine, Fellow of All India Medicos Society Member-World Obesity Indian Medical Association (I.M.A.), Fellow of the Royal Society of Health (F.R.S.H.), International Association for the Study of Obesity (I.A.S.O.), and F.R.H.S.

5. Dr. Sushma Raavi
M.B.B.S., MD, Dermatology
21 years experience 500 at clinic 800 online
Dr. Sushma Raavi is among the top dermatologists in Banjara Hills, Hyderabad. Dr. Sushma Raavi is among the best dermatologists in Banjara Hills, Hyderabad. In her 21 years as a dermatologist, she has administered various treatments, including acne treatment, skin tightening, whitening therapy, the removal of facial deformities, and the correction of hair disorders.

She is an M.B.B.S., MD-Dermatologist. She is a dermatologist with an impeccable reputation. That is why her patients are so satisfied. " She also works as a cosmetologist. She is also awarded I.S.D.S. and A.S.I.C.O.N. She is also an active member of I.A.D.V.L. and A.C.S.I.

6. Dr. J. Rajeshwari
M.B.B.S., MD-Dermatology, Venereology & Leprosy
22 Years of Experience 550 - 700 at the clinic
As a dermatologist in Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad, Dr. J. Rajeshwari is well-known for her superior care. In her 22 years as a dermatologist, she has treated countless patients with her extensive knowledge and skill. She holds an M.B.B.S. and an M.D. in dermatology, venereology, and leprosy. Dr. Skin Rajeshwari's Care & Hair Restoration Centre (Hyderabad) is located in Hyderabad's Jubilee Hills. Additionally, she offers Dermatosurgeon and Dermatologist or Cosmetologist services.

She has held the Chief Consultant Dermatologist and Cosmo Aesthetic Surgeon position at Dr. Rajeshwari's Skin Care and Hair Restoration Center. She has received awards for Best Dermatologist, A.C.S. (I), W.C.D., F.U.E., and I.S.D. for Best Research Physician. Fellowship and Senior Research Fellow (S.R.F.) in Clinical Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery. Additionally, she is a member of I.A.D.V.L., A.C.S.I., and C.D.S.I.

7. Dr. Vimala Manne
MD-Dermatology, M.B.B.S.
9 Years of Experience 500 - 800 at the clinic 300 online
The list of top dermatologists in Hyderabad's Mehdipatnam includes Dr. Vimla. As a dermatologist, she has successfully treated her patients while showing them love. Her patients trust her, and she has a history of giving hope to those with allergies and skin conditions.

She earned her M.B.B.S. degree and worked as a consultant for Kaya Skin Clinic, Care Hospital, and Oliva Advanced Skin and Hair Clinics. She offers cosmetologist, dermatologist, and trichologist services.

She has experience working with renowned hospitals, including those in Banjara Hills as a Consultant Dermatologist at Kaya Skin Clinic, Senior Cosmetic Dermatologist at Oliva Advanced Skin Hair & Laser Clinic, and Consultant Dermatologist at Care Hospital Nampally. She belongs to the I.A.D.V.L. as well.

8. Dr. T. Dayal Singh
MD-Dermatology, M.B.B.S.
20 Years Experience 400 at clinic 500 online
In Hyderabad, Dr. T. Dayal Singh is a prominent dermatologist, trichologist, and dermatologist. He has worked in this field for the past two decades, as seen in his therapies. He earned his M.B.B.S. and M.D. degrees. Currently, he practices in Dr. Dayal's Skin, Hair, and Cosmetology Clinic in Hyderabad's Nallakunta neighborhood. Additionally, he offers dermatologists, a trichologist, and pediatric dermatologists services. He has served as a Senior Consultant at SkinCare Clinic. He belongs to I.A.D.V.L. and I.M.A.

9. Dr. Vijay Bhasker Reddy Ch
MD-Dermatology, Venereology & Leprosy
8 years of experience 500 at clinic 300 online
One of L B Nagar Hyderabad's top dermatologists is Dr. Vijay Bhasker Reddy. During the eight years, he had been on the road, he had helped many of his patients get better. He holds a degree in dermatology, venereology, and leprosy. His specialties include dermatology and cosmetology.

He has treated people with laser hair removal, vitiligo, the elimination of acne scars, dermal fillers, and other things. His treatments display the magnificence of his creations. He is not just limited to treating adults; he is also skilled in handling children's skin problems. He has experience working at Osmania General Hospital and is a member of I.A.D.V.L.

10. Dr. K. S. Ram
MBBS,M.D, D.P.H
31 Years of Experience 500 at the clinic 600 online
In his 31 years as a dermatologist, Dr. K. S. Ram has assisted many patients. His services include acne treatment, skin tightening and whitening therapy, removal of facial abnormalities, tattoo removal, and more. In addition to his expertise as a Laser Specialist, He treats vitiligo, fibroid tumors, and psoriasis, and he also has experience treating vitiligo, fibroids, and psoriasis.

In addition, he belongs to I.A.D.V.L., A.A.D., A.C.S.I., C.D.S.I., and I.A.A.D. Fewer words are required to describe his work because the results speak for themselves. Therefore, if you are experiencing derma/skin/skin problems, do not hesitate to visit his clinic or schedule an appointment with him.

11. Dr. Ravali Yalamanchili
MBBS, MD - Skin, VD & Leprosy, Fellowship in Dermatology, Dermatosurgery and Lasers
13 Years of Experience. ₹500 - ₹700 at the Clinic ₹500 online

Dr. Ravali Yalamanchili is a highly skilled dermatologist based in Hyderabad, renowned for her expertise in providing comprehensive skincare solutions. With years of experience and a commitment to excellence, Dr. Ravali specializes in diagnosing and treating a wide range of dermatological conditions, ensuring personalized care for each patient.

She completed her MBBS from Prathima Institute of Medical Sciences in 2011 and acquired her MD in Skin, VD & Leprosy from JSS Medical College in Mysore in 2015. She also has a Fellowship in Dermatology, Dermatosurgery, and Lasers from the National Skin Center, Singapore, in 2018. Additionally, she also has a membership in the Indian Association of Dermatologists, Venereologists, and Leprologists (IADVL).

She has served as a Consultant Dermatologist at YCDC, Bangalore; Oliva Skin Clinic, Whitefield; and Neya Dermatology & Aesthetics.

What is Leprosy?
Leprosy is also known as Hansen s disease. It is a chronic dermatological disorder caused by the bacteria Mycobacterium Leprae. The peripheral nerves and mucosa of the upper respiratory tract are affected by the bacteria. Leprosy starts with the appearance of scaly skin lesions. If not treated in the primary stage, it can progress rapidly and cause permanent damage to the skin. It can damage the eyes, nerves and limbs. Leprosy can be moderately contagious, therefore it is necessary for the patient to be quarantined during the course of the treatment to prevent the spread of disease among other family members.
World Leprosy Day raises awareness of a disease that many people believe to be extinct. Today it is not just the disease that is forgotten, but the people too.

Etiology Agent -
Mycobacterium Leprae is an acid-fast bacilli that attach cutaneous tissues and peripheral nerves, producing skin lesions, anaesthesia, infection, and deformities. The contrary of popular believes leprosy is not highly contagious but actually has low infectivity.

What is the Incubation period?
It ranges from five and a half months to eight years.

What is the Mode of Transmission?
It transmits through the respiratory droplet. Another mode of transmission is inoculation through the skin break and mucous membrane.

What is the Pathology of Leprosy?
M. leprae attacks the peripheral nerves, especially the ulnar, radial, posterior-popliteal, anterior-tibial, and facial nerves. When the bacilli damage the skin fine nerves, they cause anaesthesia, anhidrosis, and dryness. If they attack the large nerve trunk, motor nerve damage, weakness, and pain occur, followed by peripheral anaesthesia muscles paralysis and atrophy. Claw Hand, foot drop, and ocular manifestation, such as corneal sensitivity and ulceration, conjunctivitis, photophobia, and blindness. It can invade the tissue and organ of the body. In lepromatous diseases, early lesions are multiple, symmetrical and erythematous, sometimes appearing as macules or papules or papules with smooth surfaces. Later these lesions enlarged and formed plaques on nodules on the earlobes, nose, eyebrows, and forehead, giving the patient a leonine appearance.

What are the Clinical Manifestations?

Loss of eyebrows and eyelashes.
It also leads to loss of function of sweat and sebaceous glands.
Epistaxis, ulceration of the uvula and tonsil, septal perforation and nasal collapse.
Raised, large erythematous plaques appear on the skin with clearly defined borders. As they grow, they become rough, hairless and hypopigmented and leaves an anaesthetic scar.
Diagnostic Procedures to be followed -

Identification of the signs and symptoms
Tissue Biopsy
Tissue smear
Blood tests show increased RBC, ESR, decrease Ca, albumin and cholesterol level.
Modalities of Treatment -

Sulfone therapy
Multiple Drug therapy
Rehabilitation, recreational and occupational therapy.
Nursing Management -
If the patient is admitted to the hospital, isolation and medical asepsis should be carried out. Also, give moral support and encouragement.

Prevention to be taken -

Report all cases and suspected of leprosy
Newborn infants should be separated from leprous mother
BCG vaccine may be protective if given during the first 6 months of life
Health education as to the mode of transmission.

Leprosy, also known as Hansen s Disease is considered to be one of the contagious diseases present in the world. It may be also considered one of the neurological diseases that affect primarily peripheral nerves. Leprosy is also the kind of disease that not only affects the skin of the body but all the other organs in the body(except Ovaries in females). All throughout the history disease like Leprosy are always looked with fear and often misunderstood by people. Even it is diagnosed and treated early, it is still a chronic disease. It is curable and treatment and care in the initial stages can ward off most disabilities.
This disease mainly affects the skin, eyes, the peripheral nerves, and the mucosal surfaces of the upper respiratory tract. It can occur at any age, starting from early infancy to extreme old age. Leprosy usually caused by the red-shaped and acid-fast bacillus known as Mycobacterium leprae.
The disease is defined by the number and type of sores on the skin. These are listed below:

(A) Tuberculoid Leprosy:

It affects peripheral nerves and sometimes the surrounding skin, especially on the face, eyes, and testes as well as the nerves and the skin. Lepromin is positive, but the organism is rarely isolated from lesions. Macules are elevated with clearing at the centre and are more clearly defined than in the lepromatous form. Anaesthesia is present, and involvement of the peripheral nerves occur more rapidly than in the lepromatous form.

(B) Lepromatous Leprosy:

The most serious type and considered to be the most infectious.It causes damage of respiratory tract, eyes, and testes as well as the nerves and the skin. Lepromin test is negative but the skin lesion contains a large amount of Hansen s bacillus. There is a gradual thickening of the skin with the development of the granulomatous condition. Lesion frequently appear as muscles, becoming nodular in character (leproma). There is a slow involvement of the peripheral nerves, with some degree of anaesthesia and loss of sensation and the gradual destruction of the nerves. There is atrophy of the skin the muscles and eventual absorption of small bones, primarily the bones of the hands and feet. There is ulceration of the mucous membrane of the mucous. Because of the absorption of small bones and ulceration, natural amputation may occur.

(C) Borderline Leprosy:

Both the symptoms of tuberculoid and lepromatous can be seen in these cases. Skin lesion in this type is diffuse and poorly defined.

The symptoms of leprosy are hard to identify at the initial stages. It usually takes 3 5 years for the symptoms to appear on the body, after getting infected by the bacteria of leprosy. In some cases reported by the medical anthropologists, onset followed only after 20 years. Leprosy thus has a long incubation period which makes it difficult for the patient as well as the doctor to determine the exact time when the person got infected.
According to the US CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), the symptoms of leprosy can be mainly found on the skin, nerves, and mucous membranes.

(A) Symptoms found on the skin are:

Nodules on the skin
Dark patch on the skin or sometimes multiple dark patches on the skin area.
Thick, faded, stiff, and dry skin area
Painless ulcers on the soles of the feet on the face and on the earlobes, usually painless in natureSwelling
Loss of eyelashes and eyebrows
(B) Symptoms related to nerve damage are:

Numbness in the affected areas
Weak muscles
Paralysis (mostly in the feet and hands)
Enlarged nerves
Eye problems which may lead to glaucoma and blindness
Infertility in males
(C) Symptoms related to the mucous membranes are:

Bleeding of the nose
A stuffy nose
When leprosy affects the nerves, a loss of sensation can be noticed.
Due to the loss of sensation, injuries such as burns cannot be sensed by the affected person. In the absence of proper muscle coordination, the skin and bones of the body of patient tend to take the full weight of the patient s body, that s why feet are extremely vulnerable. If it is left untreated, the following signs and symptoms may be noticed:

The crippling of hands and feet
Shortening of fingers and toes due to reabsorption
Paralysis
Blindness
Chronic ulcers on the sole of the feet
Permanent loss of eyelashes and eyebrows
Disfigurement of the nose.
Some other complications which may occur in rare cases are:

Painful nerves
Pain and redness all over or in the affected area
Burning sensation on the skin
According to Talhari et al. (2015), the secondary infections (caused by bacterial and viral infections through injuries unnoticed) can cause tissue loss and shortage of the feet and toes due to cartilage absorption in the body. Around 30% of the people affected with leprosy experiencing nerve damage can be treated in the early stages, but, if treatment is delayed, this may become permanent, causing various body abnormalities