Pure neural leprosy in a child: a case report

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Neurology
• Infectious Diseases
• Dermatology

Background:

• Leprosy, a chronic infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium leprae, typically affects the skin, peripheral nerves, upper respiratory tract, eyes, and testes.
• Neural leprosy, a form of the disease primarily affecting the nervous system, is uncommon, especially in pediatric populations.
• Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent irreversible nerve damage and disability.

Observation:

• This report details a unique case of pure neural leprosy in a 3 1/2-year-old female child.
• The presentation was characterized by neurological symptoms without significant cutaneous manifestations, a rare occurrence.
• The diagnostic process involved a comprehensive neurological examination and appropriate investigations to confirm the diagnosis.

Findings:

• The child presented with symptoms indicative of pure neural leprosy, suggesting a primary involvement of the peripheral nerves.
• This specific presentation in a young child is noteworthy due to its rarity.
• Confirmation of Mycobacterium leprae infection affecting the neural pathways was established.

Implications:

• This case underscores the need for heightened clinical suspicion for leprosy in children presenting with unexplained neurological deficits.
• It emphasizes that leprosy can manifest solely as a neurological disorder, even in very young patients.
• Further research into pediatric leprosy presentations may improve early detection and management strategies, preventing long-term sequelae.