Transmission And Causes Of Leprosy

Hansen's disease, a condition most individuals know as leprosy, is a disease caused by the bacteria Mycobacterium leprae. It is classified as a chronic granulomatous disease because it is relatively slow developing and it causes inflammatory nodules to form in the skin. In this way, it is similar to tuberculosis. Historically, leprosy affected almost every culture and was a significant source of panic. There was no cure, and it was considered a horrible, slow way to be disfigured and eventually die. Lepers were ostracized and forced to live among themselves in special 'leper colonies.' Today, leprosy is not nearly as terrible of a diagnosis. The disease is entirely curable with modern treatment options. Although less common, individuals can still get this disease in many ways. Learn about the transmission and causes of leprosy now.

Slow-Growing Bacteria

One of the things that sets leprosy apart from other bacterial diseases is how slowly it progresses. Most bacteria can reproduce in a matter of hours or even minutes. Mycobacterium leprae, on the other hand, can take twelve to fourteen days to reproduce. Scientists have yet to find a way to culture this bacteria on artificial media. This type of bacteria is considered an 'obligate intracellular' due to the fact it can only survive in humans and certain animals. This slow-growing bacteria favors the macrophages and Schwann cells in the body. Another characteristic of Mycobacterium leprae is it thrives in environments between 80.9 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit, which is why it is commonly found on the extremities. Examples include the nose, ears, hands, feet, and even the eyes.

Keep reading to learn more about the transmission and causes of leprosy now.