A case of advanced lepromatous leprosy with rhino-oro-laryngological involvement in the post-elimination era.
A patient presenting with symptoms and signs of congestive heart failure was incidentally found to be in advanced stage of leprosy. He had multiple lepromatous nodules over the entire body. The oral mucosa was yellowish with a matte appearance and the palate had a site ready to perforate. Nasal cavity revealed a small septal perforation with overlying crusts suggesting advanced rhinitis. Diagnosis of lepromatous leprosy was confirmed on histology. This case report emphasizes the existence of pockets of highly bacilliferous cases that continue to be a source of infection within the community and highlights the need for enhanced health education.
Thomas
M
M
Department of Dermatology, Schieffelin Institute of Health Research and Leprosy Center, Karigiri, Vellore-632 106, Tamilnadu, India. mary_thomas121@yahoo.com
Emmanuel
M
M
D000328:Adult; D001706:Biopsy; D006333:Heart Failure; D006801:Humans; D033162:Incidental Findings; D007917:Leprostatic Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D015440:Leprosy, Lepromatous / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000473:pathology; D008297:Male; D009061:Mouth Mucosa / Q000473:pathology; D009166:Mycobacterium leprae / Q000302:isolation & purification*; D009296:Nasal Cavity / Q000473:pathology; D055556:Nasal Lavage; D010038:Otorhinolaryngologic Diseases / Q000209:etiology* / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery; D010159:Palate / Q000473:pathology
D007917:Leprostatic Agents