Abstract
Leprosy is an infection caused by Mycobacterium leprae that survives in macrophages and Schwann cells of the skin. It can be cured if treated early, but severe peripheral neuropathy remains if appropriate treatment is not received. It presents with numerous symptoms such as limb neuropathy and vision impairment. The incidence in Japanese is 0 to 1 case per year, but that in foreigners living in Japan is several cases per year.
The mechanism of wound formation due to leprosy is similar to that of diabetic foot, but the causes of blood flow disorders and increased bacterial infection are different. Chronic irritation may cause verrucous carcinoma and scar cancer.
Those who were treated inhumanely by the compulsory quarantine policy due to leprosy often keep their history confidential from their families. In addition, if they were refused consultation because of leprosy in the past, they may be afraid to go to a specialized outpatient hospital and hesitate to go until their condition worsens.
This paper describes the characteristics of foot lesions caused by leprosy and the leprosy problem in Japan.
