Beyond Elimination: Unveiling Leprosy Cases in Far West Nepal

Abstract

Leprosy, one of the Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs), can be diagnosed based on any of its three characteristics: a hypopigmented or reddish skin patch with sensory loss, thickened peripheral nerves with sensory impairment, and a positive skin smear for acid‐fast bacilli (AFB). In this article, we present two cases: a 30‐year‐old male misdiagnosed with Tinea corporis infection for a year before being correctly diagnosed with borderline tuberculoid leprosy via biopsy, and an 18‐year‐old male who discontinued multidrug therapy (MDT) due to stigma and later presented with a type 2 lepra reaction. These cases show hidden leprosy in Far West Nepal, highlighting the need for early diagnosis and treatment, addressing the stigmas and promoting proper knowledge, and additionally, the need to ensure a collaborative response from health workers, local government, and the community to prevent disabilities and reduce the psychological and socio‐economic burden on individuals.