Immunosuppression and Leprosy

This chapter discusses the presentation and management of leprosy in an immunosuppressed host. An immunocompromised host is a patient who does not have the ability to respond normally to an infection due to an impaired or weakened immune system. Immunodeficiency may be inherited (e.g., hypogammaglobulinemia) or acquired as a result of certain conditions such as HIV/AIDS, some cancers, malnutrition, diabetes, splenectomy, and trauma. Many drugs will also cause immunosuppression: chemotherapy, corticosteroids, and immunosuppressants used in organ transplants or autoimmune diseases.