Leprosy in the Middle Ages: A European perspective

Abstract

Leprosy is one of the major mycobacterial diseases caused by Mycobacterium (M.) leprae or M. lepromatosis. Although there is scientific evidence for human leprosy from the Iron Age, it became more prevalent during medieval times, deeply affecting society and social life. Leprosy was considered a consequence of sin and was later thought to a certain extent to be inherited. Lepers were declared legally dead and excluded from normal social life. In the 14th century, the medicalization of leprosy began. Leprosaria became the earliest hospitals in the Middle Ages that were specialized for a single disease. They had their own churches, cemeteries, and priests. Treatment included medical and spiritual approaches.