Leprosy is a chronic granulomatous infection that primarily affects developing and underdeveloped countries. Co-infection with the hepatitis B virus can complicate its natural course by altering the host immune system response and thereby the disease outcomes. Early detection and treatment of the disease is thus imperative for preventing debilitating deformities. Several studies have shown positive viral markers for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and hepatitis B in patients with leprosy. However, in the Indian subcontinent, we have limited evidence highlighting this correlation. We present a case of a 42-year-old male with chronic hepatitis B infection presenting with new-onset lepromatous leprosy. The patient was successfully managed with a multibacillary multidrug regimen. In patients with hepatitis B co-infection, clinicians must be vigilant about the higher risk of complications and poorer patient outcomes. Extensive longitudinal studies assessing the correlation between leprosy and hepatitis B in India can help tailor future guidelines for management.
BT - Journal of Family Medicine and Primary Care DO - 10.4103/jfmpc.jfmpc_589_23 IS - 4 LA - Eng N2 -Leprosy is a chronic granulomatous infection that primarily affects developing and underdeveloped countries. Co-infection with the hepatitis B virus can complicate its natural course by altering the host immune system response and thereby the disease outcomes. Early detection and treatment of the disease is thus imperative for preventing debilitating deformities. Several studies have shown positive viral markers for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and hepatitis B in patients with leprosy. However, in the Indian subcontinent, we have limited evidence highlighting this correlation. We present a case of a 42-year-old male with chronic hepatitis B infection presenting with new-onset lepromatous leprosy. The patient was successfully managed with a multibacillary multidrug regimen. In patients with hepatitis B co-infection, clinicians must be vigilant about the higher risk of complications and poorer patient outcomes. Extensive longitudinal studies assessing the correlation between leprosy and hepatitis B in India can help tailor future guidelines for management.
PB - Medknow PY - 2024 SP - 1559 EP - 1562 T2 - Journal of Family Medicine and Primary Care TI - A case of lepromatous leprosy in a background of chronic hepatitis B infection UR - https://journals.lww.com/jfmpc/fulltext/2024/13040/a_case_of_lepromatous_leprosy_in_a_background_of.62.aspx VL - 13 SN - 2249-4863, 2278-7135 ER -