Transmission And Causes Of Leprosy
Hansen's disease, a condition most individuals know as leprosy, is a disease caused by the bacteria Mycobacterium leprae. It is classified as a chronic granulomatous disease because it is relatively slow developing and it causes inflammatory nodules to form in the skin. In this way, it is similar to tuberculosis. Historically, leprosy affected almost every culture and was a significant source of panic. There was no cure, and it was considered a horrible, slow way to be disfigured and eventually die. Lepers were ostracized and forced to live among themselves in special 'leper colonies.' Today, leprosy is not nearly as terrible of a diagnosis. The disease is entirely curable with modern treatment options. Although less common, individuals can still get this disease in many ways. Learn about the transmission and causes of leprosy now.