Abstract

LEON-TOSCANO, CE et al. LEPROSY LEPROMATOSA NOT ERADICATED IN PERU. Rev. argent. dermatol. [online]. 2018, vol.99, n.3, pp.41-50.  Epub Sep 30, 2018. ISSN 1851-300X.

In this case study, the authors discuss the presentation of a 56-year-old male in a hospital in the Trujillo district with lepromatous multibacillary leprosy. The biopsy of one of the lesions showed diffuse infiltrations by foamy macrophages in all its extension, with the stain of Ziehl - Neelsen bacilli acid resistant alcohol loose or packaged in groups, the bacilar index: 6.

The condition was initially managed in the community as a "bullous pemphigus" that suggests that local barriers currently prevent the detection of leprosy in this developing primary care system. Leprosy is a multisystem disease and the patient demonstrated evident peripheral neurological alterations. Promoting the knowledge of these systemic manifestations will avoid a delay in the diagnosis, in turn will reduce complications and avoid long-term morbidity. Efforts to optimize detection systems, management and public and professional education are essential to promote eradication in these populations at risk.

Keywords : Peru; lepromatous leprosy; eradication; blistering pemphigus; delayed diagnosis.