Lepromatous leprosy (Q95174)

Lepromatous leprosy occurs in individuals with a poor or absent cell-mediated immune response to infection with Mycobacterium leprae. This allows the bacillae to multiply unhindered in skin and nerves (multibacillary leprosy). It is characterised by multiple poorly defined erythematous macules, papules, nodules and plaques which are distributed widely but usually symmetrically over the body. The face and limbs are sites of predilection. A symmetrical peripheral neuropathy of the hands and feet is commonly present [Dermatology TAG].