Leprosy, a chronic infectious disease caused by the bacillus Mycobacterium leprae, primarily affects the skin, peripheral nerves, upper respiratory tract, and eyes. Historically feared for its disfiguring and disabling effects, leprosy is now fully treatable with modern medicine. The disease progresses slowly, and its symptoms include skin lesions, loss of sensation in hands and feet, muscle weakness, and, in severe cases, deformities such as claw hands or foot drop. Due to its potential for nerve damage, early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are crucial in preventing permanent disability. The treatment for leprosy is based on a combination of antibiotics, which must be taken for an extended period, typically for 6-12 months, to fully eradicate the bacteria and prevent relapse. In severe cases, surgical interventions may be necessary to address the damage caused by the disease. At Mukhija Skin & Laser Clinic, we offer comprehensive leprosy treatment, providing both medical and surgical solutions to help patients recover fully and lead a normal life.
Leprosy Treatment in Gorakhpur
Treatment Options Available
Multidrug Therapy (MDT)
MDT is the standard treatment for leprosy, consisting of a combination of antibiotics to combat Mycobacterium leprae. The regimen typically includes dapsone, rifampicin, and clofazimine. This therapy is essential to kill the bacteria and stop the progression of the disease. MDT is effective, widely available, and usually lasts from 6 to 12 months, depending on the severity of the infection.
Antibiotic Treatment for Complicated Cases
In some cases, the bacillus responsible for leprosy may develop resistance to standard antibiotics. In such instances, stronger antimicrobial medications may be required to target the resistant bacteria. These include ofloxacin, minocycline, or other second-line antibiotics, which are used to manage complicated cases of leprosy and ensure effective treatment.
Surgical Intervention
Surgical treatment may be necessary in cases where there is significant nerve damage or deformities, such as claw hands, foot drop, or ulcers. Procedures may include nerve decompression, tendon transfer surgery, and amputation of necrotic tissues. These surgeries help alleviate the functional impairment caused by leprosy and restore mobility and quality of life.
Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation
Patients who suffer nerve damage or muscle weakness due to leprosy may benefit from physiotherapy and rehabilitation. These treatments focus on improving muscle strength, joint mobility, and overall function, helping individuals regain movement and prevent further deformities. Physiotherapy also plays a key role in managing pain and enhancing the patient’s quality of life.
Why Choose Mukhija Skin & Laser Clinic for Leprosy Treatment?
FAQs About Leprosy Treatment
Leprosy is transmitted through respiratory droplets from an infected person, typically through prolonged close contact. It is not highly contagious, and most individuals are not at risk of contracting leprosy unless they are in frequent and prolonged contact with an untreated infected person.
Yes, leprosy is completely treatable with antibiotics, specifically multidrug therapy (MDT). With early diagnosis and proper treatment, individuals can recover fully and prevent the disease from progressing to more severe stages that cause deformities and disability.
The most common symptoms of leprosy include skin lesions that may appear lighter or darker than the surrounding skin, loss of sensation in the affected areas, muscle weakness, and numbness in the hands and feet. In advanced cases, deformities such as claw hands and foot drop may occur due to nerve damage.
If left untreated, leprosy can cause nerve damage, muscle weakness, and deformities such as claw hands and foot drop. However, with timely and appropriate treatment, these effects can be minimized or reversed. In cases of severe nerve damage, rehabilitation and surgical intervention can help manage the damage and restore functionality.
