Review on genotyping of mycobacterium leprae in tracking the possible route of transmission

The spread of Mycobacterium leprae is probably much more complicated than we know. The use of VNTRs including subtyping of SNPs important to know the sources and transmission chain in leprosy, and to monitor the dynamic of leprosy at the high endemic population. Contact with armadillos especially in people who handled or consumed armadillos implicated to the possible transmission of the bacteria. On the other hand, the presence of Mycobacterium leprae in water sources associated with the possible human infection. The possible existence of M. Leprae in extra-human sources enables the soil may represent a temporary reservoir. Amoebas were present in the environment (e.g., soil, water, and air) play a role in viable Mycobacterium leprae outside humans. However, the presence of Mycobacterium leprae and several amoebae within environment samples leading to the perception that amoeba run as a vector. In addition, geographical range and history of the strain of Mycobacterium leprae is needed to monitor the spread of this disease in the community and to better understand the ecological character of leprosy endemicity.