What does ENL mean in PHYSIOLOGY

Erythema nodosum leprosum (ENL) is a rare and often debilitating disorder associated with leprosy. It is characterized by painful, itchy red bumps on the skin.

The most common symptom of ENL is painful reddish-purple bumps on the shins or ankles that may be accompanied by fever and swollen lymph nodes in the groin or neck area. Other symptoms include joint pain, muscle weakness, difficulty breathing, and fatigue.

The exact cause of ENL is not known but it has been linked to reactivation of dormant Mycobacterium Leprae bacteria from a previous bout of Leprosy.

Treatment for ENL includes medications to reduce inflammation and pain, as well as lifestyle modifications such as avoiding extremes in temperatures and eating a healthy diet. In some cases surgery may also be recommended to treat any joint problems that might have developed from the condition.

Since the exact cause of ENL is not known it cannot be prevented with certainty but maintaining good general health through diet and exercise can help lower your risk of developing this disorder.