Morbus Hansen Type MB ENL Reaction
Abstract
Leprosy (Morbus Hansen) is a chronic infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium leprae that primarily affects the skin and peripheral nerves with highly diverse clinical manifestations depending on the host's immune response. This disease remains a public health problem in several endemic countries, including Indonesia, because it can cause permanent physical disabilities and social impacts such as stigma and discrimination. This paper aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the etiology, classification, clinical manifestations, diagnostic methods, and management of leprosy based on various scientific literature and current health guidelines. The Ridley–Jopling and WHO classifications are used to determine the severity of the disease and determine the appropriate therapeutic regimen. Diagnosis is established through clinical evaluation, bacteriological examination, histopathological examination, and other supporting tests. The recommended primary therapy is Multidrug Therapy (MDT), which has proven effective in killing germs, preventing drug resistance, and reducing the risk of relapse. In addition to medical aspects, leprosy management also emphasizes the importance of early detection, public education, and stigma reduction so that patients can receive prompt and appropriate treatment.
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