Langerhans cell and leprosy

Langerhans cell population was counted in 44 patients of different types of leprosy and compared with 12 normal volunteers. Significant reduction in LC count was observed in cases of LL (253.44 +/- 136.83/mm2) and BL (349.36 +/- 121.67/mm2). Whereas in TT (854.60 +/- 332.01/mm2) and BT (715.76 +/- 235.33/mm2) there was no significant difference, as compared to Normal (927.43 +/- 103.87/mm2). Treatment had no influence on LC population in both the polar types of leprosy. Role of these immunocompetent dendritic cells in the pathogenesis of leprosy is discussed.