Pathogenesis (development of disease)
Mycobacterium leprae is thought to enter the body through the respiratory tract or through small skin lesions. Mycobacterium leprae is only slightly contagious (infectious), which is why prolonged close physical contact with persons suffering from leprosy is a prerequisite for infection.Only about five percent of infected persons contract leprosy.
The reason for the different courses of leprosy is seen in the state of the cellular defense of the infected person.In tuberculoid leprosy, the intact cellular defense cannot control the process.In lepromatous leprosy, there is a weakened cellular defense.
Etiology (causes)
Behavioral causes
- Prolonged intensive contact with persons suffering from leprosy.
