Borderline lepromatous leprosy (Q95184): Difference between revisions

Borderline lepromatous (BL) leprosy is similar to lepromatous leprosy but the presence of some cell-mediated immune response to infection prevents the unfettered proliferation of bacilli in the skin. It is characterised by large numbers of poorly-defined macules, papules and plaques with a tendency to be distributed symmetrically. Neuropathy tends to be of a diffuse "glove and stocking" type. Initiation of treatment, however, may be accompanied by recovery of cell-mediated immunity and a risk of severe nerve damage (upgrading reaction/Type I reaction) [Dermatology TAG].