Leprosy update. Epidemiology, pathophysiology, classification, diagnosis and treatment

Abstract

Leprosy is a chronic disease caused by Mycobacterium leprae and Mycobacterium lepromatosis, it affects peripheral nerves, skin and is occasionally systemic. In 2000 it was no longer considered a public health problem; but it is endemic in 11 countries, and cases continue to be reported in America. It is classified within Neglected Infectious Diseases (NID). The stigma and discrimination that prevail in the cultural conception, together with the erroneous assumption of its eradication, promote underdiagnosis or late detection and make treatment difficult. The objective of the present study was to update previous knowledge about this disease, for which a systematic literature search was carried out, using descriptors and specialized databases. Finally, a narrative of the results was made. Cases are still reported in El Salvador, the majority in San Salvador and San Miguel, the pathophysiology continues to be studied, finding more and more genetic and immunological correlations, the classification used has been maintained since 1980, polychemotherapy continues to be the treatment of choice and awaits the development of a vaccine. It is concluded that the eradication of leprosy depends on scientific development and the commitment to achieve its early detection, encouraging an appropriate study from basic medical training and, therefore, avoiding dismissing it in medical practice, in dermatoses and clinical manifestations compatible with leprosy. .