Hanseníase dimorfa e suas particularidades: uma revisão bibliográfica

Abstract

Leprosy is one of the oldest diseases known to humanity, with historical records including references in the Bible. For centuries, leprosy was often confused with various dermatological conditions, which made diagnosis difficult and reinforced its stigmatization. It was only in 1873 that Mycobacterium leprae was identified as the etiological agent, challenging old conceptions and paving the way for a more scientific and evidence-based treatment. The disease presents a wide range of clinical manifestations, which reflect the host's immune response. The borderline form, or dimorphic leprosy, is particularly complex and lies between the tuberculoid and lepromatous poles. It is important to note that this form is unstable and may progress to either milder or more severe forms of the disease. From an immunological perspective, this form shows a mixed response, in which both cellular and humoral immunity are present, though ineffectively. Treatment involves multidrug therapy (MDT) with rifampicin, dapsone, and clofazimine. Multidisciplinary follow-up is essential to improve patients' quality of life, reduce the psychological impact caused by the disease’s stigma, and prevent disabilities.