Neurological manifestations of leprosy

BACKGROUND - Leprosy affects millions worldwide and is surprisingly common in the United States. Leprous neuritis is the most common treatable neuropathy. REVIEW SUMMARY - Leprosy is the only disease in which bacteria regularly invade peripheral nerves, with a predilection for Schwann cells. Because of a low temperature optimum for mycobacterial growth, nerve damage occurs in cool areas, leading to a unique temperature-linked neuropathy. Recognition of the neurologic features permits early diagnosis and effective treatment with rifampin, dapsone, and clofazimine. Leprosy occurs in high-, medium-, and low-resistance forms. Superimposed reactions are immunologic phenomena that profoundly affect the degree of nerve damage. Stigma and rehabilitation are important aspects of leprosy. CONCLUSION - Leprosy produces a characteristic neuropathy easily recognizable by a neurologist.