Leprosy history and symptoms: Difference between revisions
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* [[Skin lesions]] that are lighter than normal [[skin]] color. | * [[Skin lesions]] that are lighter than normal [[skin]] color. | ||
** [[Lesions]] have decreased [[sensation]] to [[touch]], [[heat]], or [[pain]]. | ** [[Lesions]] have decreased [[sensation]] to [[touch]], [[heat]], or [[pain]]. | ||
** [[Lesions]] do not heal after several weeks to months | ** [[Lesions]] do not heal after several weeks to months. | ||
* Growths in the [[skin]] | * Growths in the [[skin]]. | ||
* Thicker or [[dry skin]] | * Thicker or [[dry skin]]. | ||
* [[Numbness]] or lack of [[sensation]], predominantly on the [[hands]], [[arms]], [[feet]] and [[legs]] | * [[Numbness]] or lack of [[sensation]], predominantly on the [[hands]], [[arms]], [[feet]] and [[legs]]. | ||
* [[Muscle weakness]] | * [[Muscle weakness]]. | ||
* [[Eye]] problems, such as [[dry eyes]] and [[corneal abrasion]]. | * [[Eye]] problems, such as [[dry eyes]] and [[corneal abrasion]]. | ||
* Enlargement of [[nerves]], particularly in the [[elbow]] and [[knee]] areas. | * Enlargement of [[nerves]], particularly in the [[elbow]] and [[knee]] areas. | ||
Revision as of 18:46, 5 July 2014
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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: João André Alves Silva, M.D. [2]
Overview
History
Obtaining an adequate history is an essential component of the diagnosis of leprosy. Attending to the fact that it is not a common condition in developed countries, a correct diagnosis may be harder to reach, in which case a detailed history, that includes comprehensive description of symptoms, along with their time of onset and progression, as well as a list of recent travels, contacts and illnesses in any family member or coworker, is of extreme importance. An accurate history is also important since the clinical presentation is a major element of the diagnosis of leprosy, thereby facilitating the start of treatment, contributing to a better prognosis. History of trauma should also be asked, since it might explain some of the skin lesions in the patient.
Common Symptoms
Common symptoms of leprosy may include:[1]
- Skin lesions that are lighter than normal skin color.
- Growths in the skin.
- Thicker or dry skin.
- Numbness or lack of sensation, predominantly on the hands, arms, feet and legs.
- Muscle weakness.
- Eye problems, such as dry eyes and corneal abrasion.
- Enlargement of nerves, particularly in the elbow and knee areas.
- Stuffy nose.
- Nose bleed.
- Lesions of the soles of feet.
Less Common Symptoms
Less common symptoms commonly appear in more severe cases of the disease, and may include:[1]