A novel vitamin D receptor polymorphism associated with leprosy

Leprosy is a chronic infectious disease that primarily affects peripheral nerves, and the skin, but can also compromise functions of the eyes and other organs. Mycobacterium leprae (M. leprae) is the etiological agent and an obligate intracellular parasite [1]. Leprosy remains a serious public health problem in developing countries, such as India, Brazil and Indonesia, and it is endemic in Africa, Asia and Latin America [2].