Mycobacterium leprae

Mycobacterium leprae is an intracellular, acid-fast, rod-shaped bacterium associated with leprosy, a chronic infectious disease that primarily affects the peripheral nerves, skin, upper respiratory tract, eyes, and nasal mucosa. It was discovered by G.H. Armauer Hansen in 1873, making it the first bacterium to be identified as causing disease in humans.

Characteristics

Mycobacterium leprae is an obligate intracellular parasite, which means it cannot be cultured in artificial media. It has a slow replication rate and a long incubation period, which can last from 5 to 20 years. The bacterium is aerobic, non-motile, and gram-positive. It is also acid-fast, meaning it retains certain stains even after being washed with acid alcohol.

Pathogenesis

Mycobacterium leprae primarily affects the skin and nerves, causing skin lesions and nerve damage. The bacterium is transmitted via droplet infection, through close and frequent contact with untreated cases. The disease is not highly infectious.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of leprosy is primarily based on clinical signs and symptoms, as the bacterium cannot be cultured in the laboratory. Skin biopsy and nerve biopsy can be used to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment for leprosy involves a combination of antibiotics, including dapsone, rifampicin, and clofazimine. This combination is known as multidrug therapy (MDT), and it is provided free of charge by the World Health Organization (WHO) to all patients worldwide.

See also

• Leprosy
• Mycobacterium
• Mycobacterium tuberculosis
• Antibiotics
• World Health Organization

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