Therapy of Leprosy- Present Strategies and Recent Trends with Immunotherapy

Abstract

Leprosy is a complex infectious diseases cause by Mycobacterium Leprae. As the nation is passing through the eradication phase of leprosy, reports are suggesting a change in epidemiology and symptomatology of the disease. Current therapeutic strategies like multidrug therapy (MDT) although effective in treating the majority of cases but not sufficient to eradicate still the new leprosy cases alone and with the complication of diseases like deformities, relapses, and recurrence of cases are occurring in the society. For eradication, there is a requirement of modification of current treatment strategies. The current management of patients affected with leprosy is insufficient to prevent nerve disabilities and control relapses, reactions, and recurrences. The need for newer anti-leprosy agents has been felt for a complete cure without complications and deformities. Various agents like fluoroquinolones (FQs), macrolides, and minocycline have also been tried in various combinations and duration. We reviewed the various issues related to treatment, drug resistance, and the possible steps of complete eradication of this stigmatized disease from the world. While alternative chemotherapy or supplemental immune therapies that would offer shorter or easier treatment regimens appear to be feasible, only a small number of trials are performed. More proactive strategies appear necessary in the drive for eradication. This article also reviews the addition of an immunotherapeutic strategy against leprosy.