Tuberculoid leprosy

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Tuberculoid leprosy

Tuberculoid leprosy (pronunciation: too-ber-kyoo-loid lep-ruh-see) is a form of leprosy, a chronic infectious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium leprae. This form of leprosy is characterized by a few well-defined skin lesions that are numb due to damage to peripheral nerves.

Etymology

The term "tuberculoid" is derived from the Latin word "tuberculum" meaning a small swelling, and the Greek suffix "-oid" meaning like or similar. This refers to the tubercle-like skin lesions seen in this form of leprosy. "Leprosy" comes from the Greek word "lepros", meaning scaly, referring to the skin changes that occur in the disease.

Symptoms

The primary symptoms of tuberculoid leprosy include skin lesions that are lighter than the normal skin color and have decreased sensation due to damage to the peripheral nerves. Other symptoms may include muscle weakness and eye problems.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of tuberculoid leprosy is typically made based on clinical signs and symptoms, as well as a skin biopsy showing granulomas (inflammatory nodules) in the dermis.

Treatment

Treatment for tuberculoid leprosy typically involves a multi-drug therapy including dapsone, rifampicin, and clofazimine. This treatment can cure the disease and prevent complications if started early.

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