Leprosy is caused due to (A) Clostridium (B) Salmonella (C) Mycobacterium (D) Bacillus

Points to Remember:

Leprosy is a chronic infectious disease.
The causative agent of leprosy is a bacterium.
Several bacterial genera are mentioned in the options, each causing different diseases.

Introduction:

Leprosy, also known as Hansen’s disease, is a curable infectious disease caused by a bacterium. It primarily affects the skin, peripheral nerves, mucosa of the upper respiratory tract, and the eyes. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that over 200,000 new cases are reported globally each year, although the actual number is likely higher due to underreporting in many regions. Understanding the causative agent is crucial for effective prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. This question requires a factual approach to identify the correct causative agent from the given options.

Body:

Identifying the Causative Agent:

The question asks to identify the causative agent of leprosy from four bacterial genera: Clostridium, Salmonella, Mycobacterium, and Bacillus. Let’s examine each:

(A) Clostridium: This genus contains bacteria that produce spores and are often associated with anaerobic infections, such as tetanus, botulism, and gas gangrene. It is not the causative agent of leprosy.
(B) Salmonella: This genus includes bacteria that cause various gastrointestinal illnesses, such as typhoid fever and salmonellosis. It is not associated with leprosy.
(C) Mycobacterium: This genus contains several species of bacteria known for their acid-fast properties. Mycobacterium leprae is the specific species responsible for causing leprosy.
(D) Bacillus: This genus includes bacteria that can cause various diseases, including anthrax. It is not the causative agent of leprosy.

Conclusion:

In summary, the correct answer is (C) Mycobacterium. Mycobacterium leprae is the bacterium responsible for causing leprosy. The other options, Clostridium, Salmonella, and Bacillus, are associated with different diseases. The identification of M. leprae as the causative agent has been crucial for developing effective multi-drug therapy (MDT) regimens, which have significantly reduced the global burden of leprosy. Continued efforts in early diagnosis, prompt treatment with MDT, and public health awareness campaigns are essential to eliminate leprosy as a public health problem. A holistic approach involving community engagement and accessible healthcare services is vital for achieving this goal, upholding the fundamental right to health for all, in line with constitutional values.

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