Leprosy, also known as Hansen’s disease, is a chronic disease caused by ?

Leprosy, also known as Hansen’s disease, is a chronic infectious disease caused by a type of bacteria, Mycobacterium leprae. The disease predominantly affects the skin and peripheral nerves. Left untreated, the disease may cause progressive and permanent disabilities.It is more common in tropical and subtropical areas. It is a neglected tropical disease (NTD) which still occurs in more than 120 countries, with more than 200 000 new cases reported each year.It is known to occur at all ages ranging from early childhood to old age.