High Serum Levels of Transforming Growth Factor β1 (TGF-β1) a Risk Factor for Neuropathic Pain in Patients with Multibacillary Leprosy

Leprosy caused by Mycobacterium leprae is a chronic infectious disease, affecting the peripheral nerves, skin, and other organs. Neuropathic pain is a common complication, occurring in approximately 15% of leprosy patients, even after treatment completion. Proinflammatory cytokines that play a role in the immune response and nerve injury in leprosy include Transforming Growth Factor β1 (TGF-β1). This review article aims to analyze the relationship between elevated serum TGF-β1 levels and the risk of neuropathic pain in leprosy patients. Literature findings indicate that increased TGF-β1 expression is associated with nerve damage, Schwann cell apoptosis, and sensitization of pain pathways, contributing to chronic neuropathic pain development. The article highlights the importance of understanding the pathophysiology of TGF-β1 in leprosy-related neuropathic pain for early detection and targeted therapy. Evaluating serum TGF-β1 levels may serve as a biomarker for assessing neuropathic pain risk and developing immunomodulatory treatments to improve pain management in leprosy patients. Identifying TGF-β1 as a therapeutic target could lead to novel strategies for reducing neuropathic pain and enhancing the quality of life for affected individuals.