Association of Childhood Hansen’s Disease with Clinicopathologic Parameters

Abstract

Introduction: Leprosy, also known as Hansen's disease (HD), is a long-term infection by the bacteria Mycobacterium leprae or Mycobacterium lepromatosis. Infection can lead to damage of the nerves, respiratory tract, skin, and eyes. This nerve damage may result in a lack of ability to feel pain, which can lead to the loss of parts of a person's extremities from repeated injuries or infection through unnoticed wounds.

Aims: This study aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of childhood Hansen’s Disease, focusing on clinicopathologic aspects.

Materials and methods: The present study was a Comparative study. This Study was conducted from 1year (June, 2021 – May, 2022) at School of Tropical Medicine, Kolkata. Total 100 patients were included in this study.

Result: In Male, 11(22.00%) patients had 1 Skin Lesion, 26 (52.00%) patients had 2-5 Skin Lesion and 13(26.00%) patients had >5 Skin Lesion. In Female, 17(34.00%) patients had 1 Skin Lesion, 10 (20.00%) patients had 2-5 Skin Lesion and 23 (46.00%) patients had >5 Skin Lesion. Association of gender with No. of Skin Lesion was statistically significant (p=0.0037).

Conclusion: In conclusion, this clinic pathologic study provides valuable insights into the distinctive features of childhood Hansen’s disease, emphasizing the need for heightened clinical suspicion, early diagnosis, and comprehensive management strategies to mitigate the disease burden and improve long-term outcomes among affected children.