Pruritus in leprosy: an overlooked symptom.

Hansen disease (leprosy) is a chronic granulomatous disease caused by Mycobacterium leprae, which usually affects the skin and peripheral nerves. Patients usually present with hypoaesthetic or anaesthetic skin lesions. Patients with leprosy rarely complain of pruritus and if present, it can be confused with various pruritic dermatological conditions, leading to diagnostic dilemma. We hereby report a case of leprosy in a 57-year-old woman presenting with pruritic skin lesion, highlighting the importance of recognizing pruritus as a possible manifestation of leprosy, particularly in endemic areas, to facilitate early diagnosis and prevent complications.

Abstract from PubMed