A Case Report on Hansen's Disease

Leprosy (Hansen’s disease) is caused by mycobacterium leprae and has been known since ancient times. It is highly contagious, but its morbidity is low because a large portion of the population is natutrally resistant to this disease. Leprosy generally affects skin and peripheral nerves. The disease mainly affects the skin, the peripheral nerves, mucosal surfaces of the upper respiratory tract and the eyes. Early diagnosis is very important. Its prevalence has decreased markedly since the introduction of MDT in the beginning of the 1980’s. Antibiotics are used to treat nerve damage, anti inflammatory drugs to control nerve pain and damage related to leprosy and may include steroids. Multidrug therapy is the best treatment for leprosy which includes medications such as rifampicin, dapsone, Clofazimine, Ofloxacin, Minocycline. The WHO recommends that the monthly doses of rifampin be administerd under direct observation during visit. Monthly outpatient follow-up is recommended during therapy. Successful treatment can result in flattening and elimination of nodules, papules and improve nerve function.