Histoid leprosy

Histoid leprosy is a rare form of multibacillary leprosy, a type of leprosy characterized by numerous bacteria. It is a unique form of lepromatous leprosy with distinct clinical and histopathological features.

Clinical Features

Histoid leprosy presents as nodules and plaques on apparently normal skin, often on the posterior and lateral aspects of the arms, thighs, and buttocks. The lesions are firm, non-tender, and often have a shiny surface. The disease is often associated with resistance to dapsone therapy, a common treatment for leprosy.

Pathology

Histoid leprosy is characterized by well-defined, oval-shaped histiocytes in the dermis. These histiocytes are filled with acid-fast bacilli, which are the bacteria that cause leprosy. The bacilli are arranged in parallel bundles, giving the appearance of a "histoid" pattern.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of histoid leprosy is based on clinical features, histopathological examination, and bacteriological index. A skin biopsy is often performed to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment of histoid leprosy involves multi-drug therapy, including rifampicin, clofazimine, and dapsone. This treatment is typically continued for at least 12 months, and often longer if the disease is severe.

Epidemiology

Histoid leprosy is rare, and is most commonly seen in patients who have been treated with dapsone monotherapy and have developed resistance to the drug. It is more common in men than in women, and typically affects adults.

See Also

• Leprosy
• Multibacillary leprosy
• Dapsone
• Rifampicin
• Clofazimine

References

Histoid leprosy Resources
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