British Medical Bulletin Advance Access originally published online on November 7, 2006
British Medical Bulletin 2006 77-78(1):103-121; doi:10.1093/bmb/ldl010
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The clinical and immunological features of leprosy
Clinical Research Unit, Department of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel St, London WC1E 7HT, UK
* Correspondence to: S. L. Walker, Clinical Research Fellow, Clinical Research Unit, 2nd Floor, Department of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel St, London WC1E 7HT, UK. E-mail: drstevewalker{at}hotmail.com
Leprosy is a granulomatous disease affecting the skin and nerves caused by Mycobacterium leprae. It continues to be a significant public health problem. Multidrug therapy (MDT) cures the infection, but immunological reactions may occur and neuropathy may lead to disability and deformity. It is important that the manifestations of the condition are recognized as early as possible so that early nerve damage can be identified and treated rapidly.
Keywords: leprosy immunology reactions treatment