Abstract: Leprosy reaction also known as lepra reaction is the inflammatory reactions of the skin, nerves, and other organs, characterized by sudden appearance of redness, swelling, pain, and sometimes tenderness of the skin lesion. It occurs due to sudden alteration in the immunological status of the host against the living or dead bacilli. The reactions usually occur shortly after initiating treatment of leprosy but can occur any time (including years after treatment). Leprosy reactions can affect up to 30% to 50% of patient and can cause permanent nerve loss. Leprosy reaction is of two major types type 1 lepra reaction (reversal reaction), type 2 lepra reactions (Erythema Nodosum Leprosum (ENL). A type 1 reaction or reversal reaction is expressed clinically by inflammatory exacerbation of the skin lesions and nerve trunks, consequently leading to sensory and motor alterations. Mechanism: Delayed hypersensitivity against M.Leprae antigens. Management: reduce the stimulating antigen with MDT, while suppressing the CMI response with steroid therapy. This reaction typically occurs within the first two months of treatment. It is accompanied by pain or tenderness of one or more nerves.
Keywords: Lepra reaction, Reversal reaction, Erythema Nodosum Leprosum (ENL), MDT (Multidrug therapy), M. Leprae (mycobacterium leprae), PB leprosy, MB leprosy, corticosteroids.
Title: Case report on Type 1 Lepra Reaction
Author: Salome Daniel Slahay
International Journal of Healthcare Sciences
ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)
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