Lepromatous Leprosy Manifesting As Chronic Macrocheilia: Report of a Rare Case

Abstract

Leprosy is a chronic debilitating disorder caused by the acid-fast bacilli Mycobacterium leprae (M. leprae) and Mycobacterium lepromatosis. These bacilli exhibit a distinctive predilection for the skin and peripheral nerves, although they can potentially impact any system in the body. Lately, there has been a notable reduction in mucosal symptoms, largely attributed to the timely diagnosis and treatment of leprosy. Nonetheless, oral lesions continue to hold significant epidemiological importance due to their crucial role in disease transmission. Oral manifestations, although rare, are frequently encountered in individuals afflicted with multi-bacillary leprosy. Chronic macrocheilia is an exceedingly rare manifestation of the disease, with only a few documented case reports and case studies. This article aims to document an exceptionally uncommon case of lepromatous leprosy with chronic macrocheilia as the sole presenting feature.