Hanseníase: imunopatogenia e aspectos terapêuticos

Abstract

Leprosy is an infectious disease, chronic, caused by Mycobacterium leprae, with tropism, predominantly for skin and peripheral nerves. It is presented as a public health problem, affecting men, women and children, manifesting through dermatological and neurological signs and symptoms leading to diagnostic suspicion of the disease. When diagnosed and treated late can have serious consequences for patients and their families as neurological disorders can cause physical disabilities that may develop into deformities. Physical disabilities in the eyes, hands and feet can be prevented or reduced if the leprosy patients are identified and diagnosed as soon as possible. This article aims to clarify the immunopathogenesis of the disease because the immune system exerts differential role in the classification of types of leprosy and to promote a brief review of the clinical forms of the disease and its therapeutic aspect that although simple, shown to be effective when correctly followed.