Eastern leprosy, also known as Oriental leprosy, is a chronic infectious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium leprae. It primarily affects the skin and peripheral nerves, leading to various deformities and disabilities if left untreated. The condition is called Eastern leprosy due to its higher prevalence in certain regions of Eastern and Southeast Asia.
Symptoms of Eastern leprosy can include skin lesions, numbness, weakness, and swelling of the affected areas. The disease progresses slowly over years, as M. leprae has a long incubation period and multiplies very slowly. This delayed onset can make it difficult to identify and diagnose the condition in its early stages.
Eastern leprosy is primarily transmitted through respiratory droplets, especially through prolonged close contact with an infected individual. However, its exact mode of transmission is not fully understood, and it is believed that certain genetic factors and a compromised immune system may contribute to a person's susceptibility to the disease.
Treatment for Eastern leprosy usually involves a combination of antibiotics, typically dapsone, rifampicin, and clofazimine, which can effectively eliminate the bacteria and prevent further damage. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to halt the progression of the disease and minimize deformities or disabilities.
Efforts to control Eastern leprosy have been successful in many regions, with programs focused on early case detection, multidrug therapy, and education targeting stigma reduction. Public health interventions have led to a decline in the number of reported cases worldwide, but Eastern leprosy remains a significant health concern in certain areas, emphasizing the need for continued surveillance and ongoing efforts to improve prevention and treatment strategies.
