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[HANSEN'S DISEASE IN ISRAEL]
1Israeli Hansen's Disease Center, Department of Dermatology, Hadassah University Medical Center, Jerusalem.
Harefuah
|May 23, 2017
Summary
Hansen's disease (HD), a chronic infection by Mycobacterium leprae, still requires increased awareness and early diagnosis despite global elimination efforts. This update highlights HD in Israel, emphasizing the need for timely detection to prevent complications.
Area of Science:
- Medical Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Dermatology
Background:
- Hansen's disease (HD), caused by Mycobacterium leprae, is a chronic infectious disease primarily affecting skin and peripheral nerves.
- While early treatment prevents complications, poor awareness and late diagnosis are common, even in non-endemic regions.
- Despite WHO elimination campaigns, HD persists globally, necessitating ongoing vigilance and improved diagnostic approaches.
Purpose of the Study:
- To raise awareness of Hansen's disease (HD) in Israel.
- To present updated epidemiological data for HD in Israel and globally.
- To emphasize the importance of early diagnosis and treatment for HD patients.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature on Hansen's disease (HD).
- Analysis of epidemiological data for HD in Israel.
- Overview of the global situation regarding HD prevalence and diagnosis.
Main Results:
- Hansen's disease (HD) continues to be diagnosed globally, including in Israel.
- Late diagnosis is a significant issue, often due to low awareness and exclusion from differential diagnoses.
- Updated epidemiological data for Israel and a global perspective are presented.
Conclusions:
- Increased awareness and prompt diagnosis of Hansen's disease (HD) are crucial for effective management and prevention of disability.
- The study underscores the need to include HD in differential diagnoses, even in regions where it is not endemic.
- Continued surveillance and public health initiatives are necessary to combat the ongoing impact of HD.
