A Young Man with Hypopigmented Macules on Trunk and Multiple Shiny Nodules Over Face

Leprosy (Hansen’s disease) is a chronic infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium leprae, primarily affecting the peripheral nerves, and skin. In persons with high bacillary load (lepromatous pole), the internal organs also may be affected. A 19-year-old male presented to the dermatology OPD with hypopigmented skin lesions on trunk and limbs for 6 months, along with complaints of decreased sensation over both lower legs. Bilateral non-tender thickening of ulnar and common peroneal nerves were noted. Loss of sensation of temperature, touch, and diminished pain perception were elicited in both lower legs along with dryness and loss of hair. Slit skin smear from nodules showed numerous acid fast bacilli occurring singly or in globi. Patient was treated by multidrug therapy (MDT) as per World Health Organization regimen.