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DNA Fingerprinting of Mycobacterium leprae Strains Using Variable Number Tandem Repeat (VNTR) - Fragment Length Analysis (FLA)
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Leprosy in children one year of age and under

M L Brubaker, W M Meyers, J Bourland

    International Journal of Leprosy and Other Mycobacterial Diseases : Official Organ of the International Leprosy Association
    |December 1, 1985
    PubMed

    Insights

    Leprosy diagnosis in infants under one year is often missed. Review of 91 cases highlights potential familial and unknown transmission routes, including possible intrauterine exposure to Mycobacterium leprae.

    Area of Science:

    • Pediatrics
    • Infectious Diseases
    • Dermatology

    Background:

    • Leprosy (Hansen's disease) is a chronic infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium leprae.
    • While typically associated with adults, leprosy can affect infants, though diagnosis in this age group is challenging.
    • Previous understanding of leprosy transmission and incidence in infants was limited.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To determine the incidence and characteristics of leprosy diagnosed in infants under one year of age.
    • To identify potential sources of infection in infants diagnosed with leprosy.
    • To discuss the implications of intrauterine Mycobacterium leprae exposure and diagnostic challenges in neonates.

    Main Methods:

    • Comprehensive literature review.
    • Analysis of case files from the United States Armed Forces Institute of Pathology.
    • Correspondence survey with clinicians regarding infant leprosy cases.

    Main Results:

    • A total of 91 infants under one year of age were diagnosed with leprosy.
    • Biopsy confirmation was obtained in 19 cases; diagnosis was considered certain in an additional 32 cases.
    • Mothers were the most common source of infection (29 infants), but other relatives or unknown contacts accounted for at least 43% of cases.

    Conclusions:

    • Infant leprosy diagnosis may be overlooked due to misconceptions about its rarity in the very young.
    • Non-maternal transmission routes are significant, suggesting broader public health screening considerations.
    • The possibility of intrauterine Mycobacterium leprae transmission warrants further investigation in pathogenesis and prevention strategies.

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