Qu'est-ce que la maladie de la lèpre ?
Qu'est-ce que la maladie de la lèpre ?
La lèpre est une maladie infectieuse chronique provoquée par le bacille Mycobacterium leprae, qui est acido-résistant et de forme allongée. La maladie touche principalement la peau, les nerfs périphériques, la muqueuse des voies respiratoires supérieures ainsi que les yeux.
Comment la lèpre A-t-elle disparue ?
On constate également, qu'après la huitième croisade (1270 à Tunis), la lèpre commençait son déclin. L'amélioration du bien-être des populations a joué également un rôle dans le déclin de la maladie, les vêtements n'étaient plus fabriqués en laine (considérée comme véhicule de la maladie), mais en toile.
What is the disease that causes leprosy?
- Hansen's Disease (Leprosy) Hansen’s disease (also known as leprosy) is an infection caused by slow-growing bacteria called Mycobacterium leprae. It can affect the nerves, skin, eyes, and lining of the nose (nasal mucosa).
What is the difference between leprosy and Hansen's disease?
- Leprosy is also known as Hansen’s disease. Leprosy produces skin ulcers, nerve damage, and muscle weakness. If it isn’t treated, it can cause severe disfigurement and significant disability. Leprosy is one of the oldest diseases in recorded history.
What happens if leprosy is left untreated?
- Hansen's Disease (Leprosy) Leprosy was once feared as a highly contagious and devastating disease, but now we know it doesn’t spread easily and treatment is very effective. However, if left untreated, the nerve damage can result in crippling of hands and feet, paralysis, and blindness.
What are the treatment options for leprosy?
- Patients with leprosy may also be given thalidomide, a potent medication that suppresses the body's immune system. It helps treat leprosy skin nodules. Thalidomide is known to cause severe, life-threatening birth defects and should never be taken by women who are pregnant or women who may become pregnant.
