Leprosy can be diagnosed as paucibacillary or multibacillary (which is more severe). [5] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to source A case of leprosy is also classified as either tuberculoid or lepromatous (more severe, causing large lumps and nodules on the skin). [6] X Research source
The World Health Organization (WHO) provides the MDT free to patients around the world through the Ministry of Health. In the United States medication for leprosy is provided by the National Hansen’s Disease Program. Once you start taking the medications, you can no longer spread the disease to others. You do not have to be quarantined. [8] X Research source Daily and/or monthly doses of dapsone, rifampicin and clofazimine may be prescribed for 24 months in many cases of leprosy. [9] X Research source If leprosy only shows as a skin lesion, patients may be recommended to take the medication treatment for six months. [10] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to source In the United States, multibacillary cases may be treated for one year and paucibacillary cases for two years. If leprosy only manifests as a single skin lesion, the patient may be able to treat it with just a single dose of dapsone, rifampicin and clofazimine. Multibacillary cases may require multiple treatments to cure. Drug resistance to these medications is rare. Side effects of these drugs are generally mild. Talk to your physician if you have questions. [11] X Research source
Neuritis, silent neuropathies (nerve damage without pain), pain, burning, tingling, and sudden numbness may occur. This can be treated with corticosteroids. If left untreated, it can cause permanent injury and loss of function. Iridocyclitis, or inflammation of the iris of the eye can also occur. If does, you will need to see an eye specialist right away. It can be treated with special drops, but permanent damage can result if it is left untreated. Orchitis, or inflammation of a testis can also occur. It can be treated with corticosteroids, but let your doctor know immediately if you notice this symptom, as sterility can result. Ulcers on the foot can result from leprosy. You doctor can develop a treatment plan to reduce this problem using splints, special footwear, and dressing of the wounds. [14] X Research source The nerve damage and skin problems associated with leprosy can cause disfiguration and loss of function in the hands and feet. Plans to prevent and/or manage these symptoms, specific to your case, can be provided by your physician. [15] X Research source
Wearing gloves or special footwear can protect you if you have numbness in your extremities. [17] X Research source
