کوڑھ، جسے انگریزی میں لیپروسی یا ہینسن ڈزیز کہا جاتا ہے، ایک پرانی بیکٹیریا کی بیماری ہے۔ یہ جلد، اعصاب، آنکھوں اور ناک کے اندرونی حصے کو متاثر کرتی ہے۔ اس کی علامات میں جلد پر بے رنگ یا سن دھبے، اعصاب کا موٹا ہو جانا، اور ہاتھ پاؤں میں کمزوری شامل ہیں۔ یہ آہستہ پھیلنے والی بیماری ہے اور بآسانی نہیں لگتی۔ اینٹی بائیوٹکس کے مکمل کورس سے یہ مرض پوری طرح ٹھیک ہو جاتا ہے۔
Dermatologist
MBBS, CRCP, D.DERM (Thailand ), Diploma in Dermato-Surgery (Bangkok), Research Course (UK)
Dermatologist, Aesthetic Physician, Hair Transplant Surgeon
MBBS , ECFMG (USA) , MRCGP (England) , D. DERM (Pak) , CRCP (Pak)
Dermatologist
MBBS, MCPS (Dermatology), FCPS (Dermatology)
Dermatologist
MBBS (Pb), Dip Derma (AFPGMI), FCPS (Derm) Clinical Fellowship in Dermatopathology (UK) MCPS (HPE)
Leprosy meaning in Urdu is "کوڑھ". It is a long-lasting bacterial infection caused by a germ called Mycobacterium leprae. The disease mainly affects the skin, peripheral nerves, eyes, and the lining of the nose. It is also known as Hansen's disease, named after the doctor who discovered the bacteria.
Leprosy spreads slowly. The bacteria can take 5 years on average, and up to 20 years, to cause symptoms after infection. It is not highly contagious, however close and long contact with an untreated patient can spread it through droplets from the nose and mouth. About 200,000 new cases are reported worldwide each year. The good news is that leprosy is fully curable with the right antibiotics, and early treatment prevents disability.
Leprosy develops slowly. Common signs include:
Seek a doctor's help if you notice:
Leprosy is caused by bacteria. Common factors include:
You may be more likely to develop leprosy if you:
Leprosy can be prevented by:
Doctors classify leprosy based on the number of skin patches and the presence of bacteria in the skin:
This is a milder form. The patient has 1 to 5 skin patches, and bacteria are not seen in the skin smear. Treatment usually lasts 6 months.
This is a more severe form. The patient has more than 5 skin patches, nerve involvement, or bacteria seen in the skin smear. Treatment usually lasts 12 months.
This type causes a few, well-defined pale or reddish patches with loss of feeling. The immune response is strong. It is less severe and less contagious.
This is the most severe form. The bacteria spread widely in the skin and nerves. There are many skin nodules, thickened skin, and nasal symptoms. The immune response is weak.
This type sits between tuberculoid and lepromatous forms. Skin patches are numerous and vary in size. The condition can shift towards either form over time.
This is an early form. There are one or two pale patches that may either heal on their own or progress to one of the other types.
Doctors use the following methods to diagnose leprosy:
Leprosy is fully curable with the right antibiotics. The standard treatment is called Multi-Drug Therapy (MDT) and is recommended by the World Health Organization.
(All medicines must be taken under a dermatologist's or infectious disease specialist's supervision.)
If leprosy is not treated, it can lead to serious complications:
Leprosy is curable, however early treatment is the key to preventing lifelong damage. Marham helps you connect with trusted, verified, and experienced specialists who can guide your treatment and family screening. Book an appointment with the best dermatologist through Marham today.
Marham shares expert-reviewed information to support your health journey. The information on this page is only to guide and inform you. For any personal advice, it’s always best to check with a medical professional.
Yes, leprosy still exists in Pakistan, however the number of cases has dropped sharply due to government and WHO programs. Cases are reported across all provinces, with most being managed at specialized centers.
Leprosy is not highly contagious. About 95 percent of people are naturally protected and cannot get it. The disease only spreads after long, close contact with an untreated patient through nose and mouth droplets.
Yes. Leprosy is fully curable with a course of Multi-Drug Therapy (MDT), which usually lasts 6 to 12 months. Once the patient starts treatment, they quickly become non-infectious.
The bacteria attack the nerves that carry sensation in the skin. When the nerves are damaged, the affected area loses the ability to feel pain, touch, or temperature. This is why people with leprosy may not notice burns or cuts.
No. Leprosy is a medical disease caused by bacteria. It has nothing to do with religion, sin, or punishment. The stigma around leprosy is based on old myths, however modern science has shown it is curable and not easily spread.
Dermatologists usually diagnose and treat leprosy. In complex cases, infectious disease specialists, neurologists, and orthopedic surgeons may also be involved. Government leprosy control programs offer free treatment in many cities.