Unusual sequential type I and II reactions in lepromatous leprosy: a case report

Leprosy is a rare and easily misdiagnosed infectious disease in China. Leprosy reactions (LRs) are the greatest challenge in the treatment of leprosy. If LRs cannot be identified early and treated in a timely manner, patients are at risk of developing disabilities. Type I reactions often occur in borderline leprosy, whereas type II reactions are more prevalent in lepromatous leprosy. Clinically, lepromatous leprosy with type I and II mixed LRs is less common. This report details a case of lepromatous leprosy with mixed LRs, where the patient sequentially developed type II and then type I reactions. Through 1 y of multidrug therapy and our timely identification and intervention for LRs during treatment, the patient achieved a successful cure without any sequelae.