Leprosy and Tropical Diseases

In this chapter, the epidemiology of leprosy (also known as Hansen’s disease) is summarised with reference to the World Health Organization’s Global Leprosy Strategy 2016–2020. The topics of transmission, diagnosis and treatment of the disease are also summarised. Particular emphasis, however, has been given to the secondary effects of leprosy arising primarily from the peripheral neuropathy that the disease can cause. Common effects that present as impairments of the lower limb are described, and management options are suggested.