Leprosy Flashcards
1
Q
Pathophysiology?
A
Granulomatous disease primarily affecting the peripheral nerves and skin
2
Q
Causative organism?
A
Mycobacterium leprae
3
Q
Symptoms?
A
- Patches of hypopigmented skin usually on the buttocks, face and extensor surfaces of limbs
- Sensory loss
4
Q
What determines the type of leprosy a patient will develop?
A
The degree of cell mediated immunity
5
Q
What causes lepromatous leprosy and what are the symptoms?
A
When there is low degree of cell mediated immunity
- extensive skin involvement
- symmetrical nerve involvement
6
Q
What causes tuberculoid leprosy and what are the symptoms?
A
When there is a high degree of cell mediated immunity
- limited skin disease
- asymmetric nerve involvement where there is hypesthesia (diminished sensation in skin)
- hair loss
7
Q
Management?
A
Triple therapy:
Rifampicin, dapsone and clofazimine
