​Infectious Diseases and Microbiology - Leprosy ( Mycobacterium leprae)

​Infectious Diseases and Microbiology - Leprosy ( Mycobacterium leprae) 
Leprosy is a chronic infectious disease that affects the skin, nerves, and mucous membranes, causing disfigurement and disability.
Mycobacterium leprae is a type of bacteria that is rod-shaped and has the ability to retain acid-fast stains. It is responsible for generating the disease known as leprosy. The cell wall contains mycolic acids.The growth rate is sluggish; it does not thrive on synthetic substrates.

Transmission occurs through direct interpersonal interaction. The incubation period likely ranges from 2 to 10 years. The majority of instances in the United States are concentrated in Texas, California, Louisiana, and Hawaii. Armadillos can serve as local reservoirs.
 There are two main types of leprosy: tuberculoid and lepromatous. Tuberculoid leprosy is distinguished by the presence of flat skin lesions, damage to the peripheral nerves, and the production of granulomas. Lepromatous leprosy is distinguished by significant destruction of tissues and nerves, as well as the presence of many contagious skin lesions.

Mycobacterium leprae exhibits the ability to endure and reproduce within macrophages and Schwann cells. Lepromatous leprosy is characterized by the absence of a certain cell-mediated immune response, which permits the proliferation and accumulation of organisms. This leads to the development of widespread skin lesions and systemic dissemination. Tuberculoid skin lesions exhibit a high number of granulomas but a low presence of organisms.

 Mycobacterium leprae is incapable of being cultivated in a culture that lacks cells. The utilization of the lepromin skin test and microscopic analysis of skin lesions can assist in the process of diagnosing the condition. Lepromatous lesions exhibit a high concentration of microorganisms and patients typically show a negative response to lepromin testing. In contrast, tuberculoid lesions have a low number of microorganisms and patients demonstrate a positive response to lepromin testing.
 Prolonged concurrent treatment (lasting for several years) with antibiotics such as dapsone, rifampin, and clofazimine
Proactive measures may be required to effectively manage leprosy. Individuals who have been exposed may be prescribed chemoprophylaxis.