WHO Guidelines for the Treatment of Leprosy

Introduction

Leprosy, also known as Hansen’s disease, is a chronic infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium leprae. It primarily affects the skin, peripheral nerves, and mucosal surfaces of the upper respiratory tract. Despite being curable, leprosy continues to be a public health concern in many parts of the world.

Causes and Pathophysiology

Leprosy is caused by Mycobacterium leprae, an acid-fast bacillus that multiplies slowly. Transmission occurs primarily through respiratory droplets. The bacteria invade Schwann cells, leading to nerve damage and characteristic lesions.

Clinical Manifestations

Leprosy presents in different forms, including:

• Paucibacillary Leprosy (PB): Few skin lesions with limited bacterial load.
• Multibacillary Leprosy (MB): Numerous lesions with higher bacterial load, leading to nerve damage.

WHO Treatment Guidelines

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends multidrug therapy (MDT) as the standard treatment for leprosy:

• Paucibacillary Leprosy (PB): Rifampicin and Dapsone for 6 months.
• Multibacillary Leprosy (MB): Rifampicin, Dapsone, and Clofazimine for 12 months.

Conclusion

Early diagnosis and adherence to WHO treatment guidelines significantly reduce transmission and disability caused by leprosy. Continued efforts in public health and disease surveillance are vital to eliminating leprosy globally.