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[A review on Hansen's disease]
J Luis Fernández1, J F Rangel Mayoral, F J Liso Rubio
1Servicio de Atención Farmacéutica Especializada, Hospital Infanta Cristina, Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Badajoz. jesusluisfer@hotmail.com
Summary
Hansen's disease, or leprosy, is rare in Spain but requires early diagnosis and treatment for a good prognosis. Effective multidrug therapy significantly reduces contagiousness, allowing patients to lead normal lives.
Area of Science:
- Medical Science
- Infectious Diseases
- Dermatology
Context:
- Hansen's disease (leprosy) is considered pre-eradicated in Spain, with a prevalence below the WHO's target.
- The disease presents diverse clinical forms, from tuberculoid to lepromatous leprosy.
- Global variations in epidemiology and drug accessibility complicate eradication efforts.
Purpose:
- To review Hansen's disease, focusing on clinical aspects like diagnosis and complications.
- To analyze current and emerging drug therapies for leprosy.
- To synthesize information from major medical databases and WHO guidelines.
Summary:
- Leprosy is characterized by varied clinical presentations, including distinct tuberculoid and lepromatous forms.
- Current treatment regimens are based on multidrug therapy, primarily using rifampicin, dapsone, and clofazimine.
- Newer agents like fluoroquinolones, tetracyclines, and macrolides are being incorporated into treatment protocols.
Impact:
- Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are crucial for a favorable prognosis in leprosy.
- Leprosy is a low-transmission disease with natural resistance in 95% of the population.
- Patient contagiousness diminishes rapidly after treatment initiation, enabling reintegration into community life.