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Case Studies | Neurology | India | Volume 12 Issue 9, September 2023 | Popularity: 4.9 / 10
Concurrent Leprosy and Tuberculosis: A Case Study Emphasizing the Importance of Early Detection and Interdisciplinary Management
Dr. Sravan Thati, Dr. Sumit Khupse, Dr. Kingsley Jebasingh, Dr. Sethuram A, Dr Shankar Ganesh
Abstract: Background: Co-infection of leprosy and tuberculosis(TB) is not uncommon, especially in endemic regions1. Host weak immue mechanism state is an important risk factor for such co-infection which is associated with high mortality and major morbidity. Unnoticed leprosy-TB co-infection may predispose to drug resistance, hence clinicians treating tuberculosis must have high index of suspicion of associated leprosy and vice versa. Case presentation: A 52 year old male, with poorly controlled diabetes mellitus who was recently disgnosed to have pulmonary TB, was on ATT had presented with 2 weeks history of paresethesia of legs and bilateral foot drop and thickened peripheral nerves without any skin manifestations, nerve biopsy proven neuritic form of leprosy. Was started on modified MDT for leprosy (includes dapsone and clofazamine, rifampicin was already going as part of ATT). Conclusions: This case highlights the need for a high index of suspicion for co-infection of leprosy and tuberculosis, both of which needs to be treated to avoid drug resistance. Interdisciplinary management and social support are important in these patients.
Keywords: Co-infection, Leprosy, Pulmonary tuberculosis, foot drop, rifampicin
Edition: Volume 12 Issue 9, September 2023
Pages: 238 - 242
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