leprosy

leprosy, also called Hansen disease, chronic infectious disease that affects the skin, the peripheral nerves (nerves outside the brain and spinal cord), and the mucous membranes of the nose, throat, and eyes. It is caused by the leprosy bacillus, Mycobacterium leprae. Destruction of the peripheral nerves by the bacillus leads to a loss of sensation, which, together with progressive tissue degeneration, may result in the extremities’ becoming deformed and eroded.

In almost all cultures throughout history, leprosy has aroused dread and loathing about the prospect of incurable disease and a lifetime of progressive disfigurement. At one time “lepers,” ... (100 of 3512 words)

Aspects of the topic leprosy are discussed in the following places at Britannica.

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Articles from Britannica encyclopedias for elementary and high school students.

leprosy - Student Encyclopedia (Ages 11 and up)

Throughout the ages leprosy has been one of the most dreaded diseases and its victims the most shunned. Almost all cultures have believed that persons who contracted leprosy were spiritually unclean. In modern times the disease has still retained some of its mythical character, and many people do not realize that leprosy is a disease that is only mildly contagious and not fatal. In the early 1990s the World Health Organization estimated that about 5.5 million people had leprosy.

The Leprosy Mission Australia - What is Leprosy

The Catholic Encyclopedia - Leprosy

How Stuff Works - Healthguide - Leprosy

AHealthyMe - Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts - Leprosy

Brief information on the causes, symptoms, and prevention of this bacterial infection that affects the skin, peripheral nerves in the hands and feet, and mucous membranes of the nose, throat, and eyes. Includes a glossary of key terms and a selected bibliography.