Latest news with #Mycobacteriumleprae
Time of India
3 days ago
- Health
- Time of India
Secret leprosy infected the Americas before European arrival
Representative image (AP) What to know: Leprosy is one of the oldest human diseases and originated in Eurasia or Africa A new study has found a different species of leprosy-causing bacteria existed in the Americas before European settlement. Scientists once believed Europeans brought leprosy to the American continents via infection from the bacterial species Mycobacterium leprae. But now a new study published in the journal Science reveals that a different form of leprosy-causing bacteria — called Mycobacterium lepromatosis — was already circulating in the Americas for at least one thousand years. Leprosy was therefore already affecting American indigenous peoples well before European colonization. Mycobacterium lepromatosis in America The study authors analyzed more than 800 samples taken from ancient remains in Canada and Argentina. The genomes of the bacteria taken from the samples were reconstructed, analyzed, and dated. Comparisons between the samples showed the bacterial genomes were of distinctive branches of the lepromatosis species at each end of the continent. However, they remained genetically similar. This suggested that the bacteria species had spread rapidly across the Americas, probably covering the landmass in just a few hundred years. Leprosy is caused by two bacteria species, not one. Leprosy is an ancient disease Leprosy has been infecting humans for thousands of years. The disease presents as multiple numbing skin lesions. If left untreated, it can result in nerve damage, muscle weakness, paralysis and blindness. Today, leprosy can be treated with antibiotics, but ancient sufferers weren't so fortunate. Skeletal records from 2,000BCE have been found in India with traces of the disease caused by Mycobacterium leprae. These are matched by written records of leprosy cases in ancient literature from Indian, Chinese and African civilizations, as well as stories in the Abrahamic religions. Often, these ancient descriptions associated the affliction with stigmas of immorality or ritual uncleanliness. But in 1874 the Norwegian doctor Gerhard Armauer Hansen discovered that leprosy was caused by the microscopic organism Mycobacterium leprae. In 2008, doctors in Mexico found another leprosy-causing bacteria species — Mycobacterium lepromatosis — in a leprosy patient. Before this, it was believed leprae was the only pathogen capable of causing the disease. Now both forms of the bacteria are known to cause it. Europeans spread diseases, leprosy too Nicolas Rascovan, head of the Microbial Paleogenomics Unit at the Pasteur Institut in France led the investigation. He and his colleagues estimate lepromatosis and leprae diverged from a common ancestor about one million years ago. "The diversification happened probably independent of humans," Rascovan told DW. The arrival of the first European fleets to the Americas in 1492 marked the introduction of new diseases to the Americas. Leprosy — in the form of the leprae bacterium — was among them. Archaeological evidence has shown leprae migrated with human groups out of Africa and into Asia and Europe around 40,000 years ago. Its introduction to the Americas, along with other diseases, by Europeans devastated indigenous communities and intensified the impact of pathogens that were already circulating before colonization. The discovery of lepromatosis' longer history on the continent further highlights the diversity of pathogens and their complex relationship with humans throughout history, said Rascovan. "Europeans had a very important impact by bringing this new species [leprae] that was absent in America," he said. Leprosy track and trace Rascovan hopes the presence of lepromatosis in the archeological record will improve understanding of pre-colonial disease, especially in the absence of written records. In addition, the study helps understand modern cases of leprosy, especially how it could make the jump from animals like squirrels to humans. "Our work is giving the kick start to really start analyzing, monitoring and understanding the diversity of natural reservoirs [disease carriers]," said Rascovan. He said monitoring the disease and preventing spillovers from animals to humans should be a priority. The disease is still prevalent today — 200,000 cases are reported each year globally. Brazil, India and Indonesia still report more than 10,000 new cases annually, according to WHO data.
DW
4 days ago
- Health
- DW
Secret leprosy infected the Americas before European arrival – DW – 06/04/2025
European colonizers were thought to have brought leprosy to the Americas, but a new study reveals it existed there for thousands of years and spread by a recently discovered bacteria species. What to know: Leprosy is one of the oldest human diseases and originated in Eurasia or Africa. A new study has found a different species of leprosy-causing bacteria existed in the Americas before European settlement. Scientists once believed Europeans brought leprosy to the American continents via infection from the bacterial species Mycobacterium leprae. But now a new study published in the journal Science reveals that a different form of leprosy-causing bacteria — called Mycobacterium lepromatosis — was already circulating in the Americas for at least one thousand years. Leprosy was therefore already affecting American indigenous peoples well before European colonization. For years, it was believed Mycobacterium leprae bacteria were the only cause of leprosy. That changed with the discovery of a new leprosy-causing Mycobacterium in 2008. Image: public domain Mycobacterium lepromatosis in America The study authors analyzed more than 800 samples taken from ancient remains in Canada and Argentina. The genomes of the bacteria taken from the samples were reconstructed, analyzed, and dated. Comparisons between the samples showed the bacterial genomes were of distinctive branches of the lepromatosis species at each end of the continent. However, they remained genetically similar. This suggested that the bacteria species had spread rapidly across the Americas, probably covering the landmass in just a few hundred years. Leprosy is caused by two bacteria species, not one. Leprosy is an ancient disease Leprosy has been infecting humans for thousands of years. Skeletal records from 2,000BCE have been found in India with traces of the disease caused by Mycobacterium leprae. These are matched by textual records of leprosy cases in ancient literature from Indian, Chinese and African civilizations, as well as stories in the Abrahamic religions. Often, these ancient descriptions associated the affliction with stigmas of immorality or ritual uncleanliness. But in 1874 the Norwegian doctor Gerhard Armauer Hansen discovered that leprosy was caused by the microscopic organism Mycobacterium leprae. In 2008, doctors in Mexico found another leprosy-causing bacteria species — Mycobacterium lepromatosis — in a leprosy patient. Before this, it was believed leprae was the only pathogen capable of causing the disease. Now both forms of the bacteria are known to cause it. Leprosy has been stigmatized around the world for thousands of years, but with quick medical treatment, its dangerous symptoms can be reduced Image: Nyein Chan Naing/dpa/picture alliance Europeans spread diseases, leprosy too Nicolas Rascovan, head of the Microbial Paleogenomics Unit at the Pasteur Institut in France led the investigation. He and his colleagues estimate lepromatosis and leprae diverged from a common ancestor about one million years ago. "The diversification happened probably independent of humans," Rascovan told DW. The arrival of the first European fleets to the Americas in 1492 marked the introduction of new diseases to the Americas. Leprosy — in the form of the leprae bacterium — was among them. Archaeological evidence has shown leprae migrated with human groups out of Africa and into Asia and Europe around 40,000 years ago. Its introduction to the Americas along with other diseases by Europeans devastated indigenous communities and intensified the impact of pathogens that were already circulating before colonization. The discovery of lepromatosis' longer history on the continent further highlights the diversity of pathogens and their complex relationship with humans throughout history, said Rascovan. "Europeans had a very important impact by bringing this new species [leprae] that was absent in America," he said. Indonesian leprosy survivors stepping over social stigmas To view this video please enable JavaScript, and consider upgrading to a web browser that supports HTML5 video Leprosy track and trace Rascovan hopes the presence of lepromatosis in the archeological record will improve understanding of pre-colonial disease, especially in the absence of written records. In addition, the study helps understand modern cases of leprosy, especially how it could make the jump from animals like squirrels to humans. "Our work is giving the kick start to really start analyzing, monitoring and understanding the diversity of natural reservoirs [disease carriers],' said Rascovan. He said monitoring the disease and preventing spillovers from animals to humans should be a priority. The disease is still prevalent today — 200,000 cases are reported each year globally. Brazil, India and Indonesia still report more than 10,000 new cases annually, according to WHO data. The disease presents as multiple numbing skin lesions. If left untreated, the disease can result in nerve damage, muscle weakness, paralysis and blindness. Today, leprosy can be treated with antibiotics, but ancient sufferers weren't so fortunate. Edited by: Fred Schwaller
Saba Yemen
5 days ago
- Health
- Saba Yemen
Study: Leprosy Was Latent in Americas Long Before Colonization
Washington - (Saba): A recent scientific study has found that leprosy was latent in the Americas long before European colonization, contrary to the long-held belief that the disease was introduced by European settlers. This suggests that Native Americans had already been dying from the disease for centuries. The primary cause of leprosy is known to be a bacterium called Mycobacterium leprae, and researchers still believe that Europeans introduced it to the Americas. However, a lesser-known cause appears to have been identified at that time. The new study, conducted by an international team of researchers and published in the journal Science, found that another bacterium, Mycobacterium lepromatosis—a less common cause of leprosy—was present in the DNA of ancient human remains from Canada and Argentina dating back at least 1,000 years. "This discovery changes our understanding of the history of leprosy in the Americas," says genomicist Maria Lopopolo of the Pasteur Institute in France. "It shows that a form of the disease was already endemic among indigenous populations long before the arrival of Europeans." Mycobacterium leprae was first detected in a patient in the United States in 2008 and has since also been found in red squirrels (Sciurus vulgaris) in the United Kingdom. Researchers suggest it likely spread from the United States to the United Kingdom in the 19th century. In collaboration with local indigenous communities, regarding the handling of ancestral remains, the researchers analyzed the DNA of a total of 389 ancient human samples and 408 modern human samples. Based on the results, they constructed a genetic family tree for the leprosy bacteria. Although the ancient Canadian and Argentine samples were separated by thousands of kilometers, they were remarkably genetically similar. This suggests a rapid spread of leprosy across The Americas. Based on the timeline compiled from DNA, the various strains of Mycobacterium leprae likely diverged from a common ancestor more than 9,000 years ago. With all these millennia of evolution, the team says there are likely more diverse forms of the bacteria still waiting to be discovered in the Americas. "We are only just beginning to uncover the diversity and global movement of this newly discovered pathogen," says biologist Nicolas Rascovin of the Pasteur Institute. This study allows us to hypothesize the existence of unknown animal reservoirs for this virus. All of this adds a valuable dimension to our understanding of the history of the Americas and of leprosy. It provides researchers with crucial data regarding the evolution and diversity of the disease. Infectious diseases have played a significant role in the history of North, South, and Central America, with the arrival of Europeans bringing with them a range of new pathogens for which indigenous communities were biologically unprepared. We now know that the leprosy aspect is more complex than previously thought. Around 200,000 new cases of the disease are reported globally each year, even though it is now treatable and curable with modern medicines. 'This study clearly demonstrates how ancient and modern DNA can rewrite the history of human pathogens and help us better understand the epidemiology of contemporary infectious diseases,' says Rascovan. Whatsapp Telegram Email Print
The Star
15-05-2025
- Health
- The Star
Leprosy: Still present, but can be diagnosed and treated early
I read that there was recently a leprosy outbreak in Negri Sembilan, where there was even one death. I was driving to buy plants in Sungai Buloh, Selangor, recently and I noticed that there is still a leprosy centre there. Is leprosy still common in Malaysia? In Malaysia, the number of leprosy cases actually fluctuates. In 2020, there were 181 cases. Then in 2021, there were 142 cases. This went up slightly to 183 cases in 2022. In 2023, there was a marked increase to 256 cases. This was attributed to better detection methods, especially as the Covid-19 pandemic was just over. With the Negri Sembilan outbreak this year, we are not sure what numbers 2025 will see. Leprosy is also called Hansen's disease. Is leprosy still common around the world? There are apparently 200,000 new cases reported globally every year. It still has not been completely eliminated, although it is no longer considered a public health problem. It is estimated that there are 5.5 million cases around the world. When a disease achieves a worldwide prevalence of less than one case per 10,000 people, it is no longer considered a public health issue. However, there are some countries that are still experien-cing a fairly high number of cases. In fact, 80% of all leprosy cases are mostly found in five countries around the world: India, Indonesia, Myanmar, Brazil and Nigeria. Is leprosy an infectious disease? It is caused by a bacteria called Mycobacterium leprae . This bacteria is related to the mycobacterium that causes tuberculosis. It can affect anyone, but the two ages it is mostly seen in is between 10 to 14 years of age, and 35 to 44 years of age. It is considered infectious in how it spreads from infected people to other people. But it is not like Covid-19 or the flu where the spread is rapid. The mycobacterium is believed to spread through respiratory droplets from infected patients when they cough or sneeze. But fret not, it doesn't mean that if you inhale this, you will definitely get leprosy. Most people will not develop any symptoms. In fact, you have to have certain genes in order to develop leprosy if you are exposed to the bacteria. This is called being 'genetically susceptible'. Also important to note is that this mycobacterium incubates for a long, long time – we are talking about around five years. So you may notice symptoms only years after you have been exposed. In some religious books, they mention leper colonies. Does this mean that leprosy is a very old disease? The word 'leprosy' in religious books may not really mean the disease as we know it today, meaning Hansen's disease. The word was translated from old Hebrew, which referred to a broad range of skin diseases, including fungal infections. It is usually mentioned to denote people who have disfiguring skin disease. But yes, it may include leprosy. A view of the Valley of Hope in Sungai Buloh, Selangor, formerly a leprosarium, which still houses a few old leprosy patients who have now recovered. How will I know if I have leprosy? You have to remember that leprosy symptoms usually take a long time to develop. But the first symptom people notice is numbness. You may notice it in your hands. First, you will be unable to distinguish between hot and cold. Then you will not be able to feel light touches and pain. After a while, you won't even be able to feel deep pressure. This can go on for years before you actually see any skin lesions. The first skin lesions will appear as pale patches, and may be single or multiple. They can evolve into two major types of skin lesions, as well as several in-between versions. The two main types are: > Tuberculoid leprosy These are a few red, clearly-defined patches with raised borders, or a single pale patch of less than 10cm. You may experience loss of sensation and lack of sweating in those patches. Your nerves around that area can be thickened and tender. It is considered 'better' to have tuberculoid leprosy than leprematous leprosy as it is less disfiguring. > Leprematous leprosy This type has more symptoms. Early on, you may experience a stuffy nose, nasal discharge and bleeding. You can have swelling of your limbs, such as your ankles and legs. Ulcers can develop. Then the skin lesions start to appear. They are widespread, and can be pale or red in colour. These have normal sensation. They will progress to form nodules and plaques. In the advanced stages, your forehead can thicken to resemble that of a lion's (leonine facies). Your eyebrows and eyelashes are lost. Your nose thickens and distorts, as do your earlobes. This is the 'disfiguring' sort of leprosy that we have come to know as the so-called 'hallmark' of the disease. Other organs like your eyes, liver, bones and kidneys may also be involved and become inflamed, giving rise to health issues stemming from these organs. Naturally, there are many types of skin lesions in between. If diagnosed early, leprosy need not progress to these advanced stages. Unfortunately, in many poor and remote communities, they do not have access to medical care, and so, leprosy may run its full course. If not treated, one of your major organs may become affected and lead to a slow death. But nowadays, leprosy can be detected early on, as well as treated early, so that you do not have to progress to the disfiguring stages. The disease is treated with a cocktail of antibiotics for up to six months to a year. If you believe you have been exposed to someone with leprosy, you can also be treated with a prophylactic (preventive) antibiotic. Dr YLM graduated as a medical doctor, and has been writing for many years on various subjects such as medicine, health, computers and entertainment. For further information, email starhealth@ The information provided is for educational and communication purposes only, and it should not be construed as personal medical advice. Neither The Star nor the author gives any warranty on accuracy, completeness, functionality, usefulness or other assurances as to such information. The Star and the author disclaim all responsibility for any losses, damage to property or personal injury suffered directly or indirectly from reliance on such information.
eNCA
23-04-2025
- Health
- eNCA
Patients with leprosy face lasting stigma in Ethiopia
Tilahun Wale not only lost his right foot to leprosy -- a disease that still affects thousands in Ethiopia -- he also lost his family. "My family abandoned me. They blocked my number and refused to speak to me," said Tilahun, 46, a farmer in Ethiopia's populous Oromia region, who contracted leprosy around 10 years ago. Ethiopia, a country of some 130 million people in northeastern Africa, officially eliminated leprosy as a public health problem in 1999, after case numbers dropped below one in 10,000. But some 2,500 infections are still recorded there each year, according to the United Nations World Health Organization (WHO), which lists leprosy as one of the 20 "neglected" tropical diseases. In Ethiopia, a highly religious country, leprosy is often perceived as a divine punishment. Caused by the bacteria Mycobacterium leprae, the contagious infection attacks the skin and peripheral nerves, with potentially serious after-effects, including physical deformities. The disease was declared eliminated as a health problem globally in 2000, according to the WHO. But leprosy is still present in more than 120 countries worldwide, with nearly 200,000 cases reported each year, despite being curable and with treatments that can prevent disability if applied early. Haile Kairos developed the disease as a child. "I noticed the appearance of lumps on certain parts of my body," said the 35-year-old, hiding the effects of leprosy on his legs with a blanket. There is still a stigma, he said, recalling the disgust and avoidance he has faced. Ethiopian society "doesn't have enough information about the disease", he said. The Alert Hospital in the capital Addis Ababa specialises in leprosy and treats dozens of patients at a time. It was originally founded as a leper colony in 1934 away from residential areas, but the city has expanded to surround it. - 'Stigma has diminished' - Perceptions of the disease are only slowly evolving, said Solomon Getahun, project manager at International Leprosy Mission, an NGO that provides medical assistance to patients and raises awareness. It organises discussions in communities across Ethiopia, bringing together people with the disease to explain the challenges they face. The NGO also offers microcredit to patients, most of whom struggle to find employment. Atale Mekuriyaw, 70, works at a centre where a dozen people with the disease, mostly women, make rugs, traditional clothing and jewellery. The modest salary "helps us provide for our families", she said. AFP | Amanuel Sileshi For every kilo of raw cotton she weaves, she earns between 100 and 150 birr (around 75 cents to $1.15). "Coming here and spending time like this is important to us. It's better than staying at home," added Atale, who has suffered from leprosy since childhood and says she feels less discriminated against today. "In the past, people used to say: 'Don't go near her!' But today, thanks to access to medication, the stigma has diminished," she said. The WHO has praised Ethiopia's progress in treatment and care. But the recent drastic cuts in aid announced by the United States and other Western countries could undermine the efforts. AFP | Amanuel Sileshi The WHO said last month it was cutting its budget by a fifth after the United States -- previously its biggest source of funds -- said it would no longer contribute. That is a potential problem for Alert Hospital, where preventative medicines have been supplied by the WHO. Shimelis Gezahegn, the hospital's director, said the Ethiopian authorities had promised "a backup plan". He added that it was vital they step in to continue work on treatment and eventual eradication of the disease. But "there could be some problems," he said. dyg/jf/er/rlp/jhb By Dylan Gamba
