How Do You Spell LEPROMATOUS?

1. Lepromatous is an adjective that pertains to leprosy, a chronic infectious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium leprae. It specifically refers to a particular subtype of leprosy characterized by specific clinical and pathological features.

   In lepromatous leprosy, the infection is severe and widespread in the body, primarily affecting the skin and peripheral nerves. This subtype is classified based on the immune response of the infected individual. Lepromatous leprosy, as opposed to other subtypes, is characterized by a weak cell-mediated immune response. This weakened immune response allows for the uncontrolled multiplication of the bacteria and the resulting extensive tissue damage.

   Clinically, lepromatous leprosy is characterized by the presence of numerous lesions on the skin, particularly on the face, arms, and legs. These lesions tend to be symmetrically distributed and can have a raised and nodular appearance. Additionally, peripheral nerves may become enlarged and may show signs of damage, leading to sensory and motor dysfunction.

   Pathologically, lepromatous leprosy is characterized by the infiltration of large numbers of bacteria within the skin and peripheral nerves. The immune response is typically dominated by antibody production rather than cell-mediated immunity. This antibody response contributes to the formation of granulomas, which are collections of immune cells attempting to control the infection.

   Treatment for lepromatous leprosy often involves a multi-drug therapy regimen aimed at killing the bacteria, reducing the spread of infection, and preventing complications. Early detection and treatment are crucial in preventing permanent nerve damage and deformities. Vaccination programs and improved living conditions have significantly reduced the prevalence of lepromatous leprosy in recent years, but it remains a significant health concern in certain parts of the world.

2. Relating to leprous tubercles.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for LEPROMATOUS

The word "lepromatous" is derived from the medical term "leprosy", which refers to a chronic infectious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium leprae. "Lepromatous" specifically describes a form of leprosy that is characterized by widespread and severe skin lesions.

The term "leprosy" itself originated from the Ancient Greek word "lepras", meaning "a scale". This term was further derived from the verb "lepein", which means "to peel" or "to scale off". Since leprosy often causes skin lesions and peeling or scaling of the skin, this name became associated with the disease.

Therefore, "lepromatous" derives from "leprosy" and ultimately from the Ancient Greek word "lepras", referring to the scaly skin lesions associated with the disease.