Introduction: Hansen Disease (HD) is an infection of the bacteria Mycobacterium leprae causing rash and anesthesia of the skin. It is endemic to many developing countries, where it is spread by direct contact. Zoonotic transmission through the 9-banded armadillo (Dasypus novemcinctus) has been documented in North America. HD is rare in the state of Georgia and most cases are from individuals travelling from HD endemic regions.
Case Report: The patient developed red, infiltrated, anesthetic plaques covering 20% of her body. Fite staining revealed mycobacterial organisms suggesting lepromatous HD. The patient had no relevant history of travel or personal health history. The patient gardened outdoors in Southern Georgia. She knew armadillos were present in the area, but she did not have direct contact with one. The suspected mode of transmission was through feces of an infected armadillo in the soil. The patient is being treated with a 2-year course of rifampin, clofazimine, and dapsone, and reports improvement.
Discussion: Domestically acquired HD is generally seen in other Southern states with greater armadillo populations. The range of the 9-banded armadillo is expanding, which potentially puts a greater area of the country at risk for exposure to HD. Therefore, increasing resources for treatment of HD is important.
Conclusion: This case report presents a case of HD with indirect zoonotic transmission.
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