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- Leprosy = M. leprae (+ M. lepromatosis Mexico/Caribbean)
- Cannot culture in vitro; armadillo / mouse footpad only
- Spectrum: TT (strong CMI, few lesions) âïž LL (weak CMI, many lesions, leonine facies, saddle nose, madarosis)
- Triad: hypopigmented anesthetic skin lesion + peripheral nerve thickening + AFB+
- Treatment WHO MDT:
- PB (TT/BT): Rifampin monthly + Dapsone daily à 6 mo
- MB (BB/BL/LL): + Clofazimine monthly+daily à 12 mo
- Reactions:
- Type 1 (Reversal): steroid
- Type 2 (ENL): prednisolone + thalidomide
- PEP: single rifampin 600 mg for household contacts (2018 WHO, reduces 50%)
- G6PD screen before dapsone (hemolysis)
- BCG some efficacy
- Disability prevention: foot care, glasses, surgery
- Stigma + psychosocial support critical