Short report: edematous Mycobacterium ulcerans infection (Buruli ulcer) on the face: a case report

We report a case of a four-year-old Angolan boy with the edematous form of Buruli ulcer on the face and scalp, who was treated at a rural hospital in the Bas-Congo Province, Democratic Republic of Congo. Treatment consisted of a series of surgical interventions and antimycobacterial chemotherapy (rifampin and ciprofloxacin) for two months. This case demonstrates the diagnostic and management difficulties of an edematous lesion of BU on the face and suggests an enhancement of healing and limitation of extent of excision by specific antibiotherapy. The outcome in this patient also underscores the importance of prompt referral of suspected cases and training of health professionals in the early diagnosis of BU.