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Review
. 2014 Mar-Apr;89(2):323-5.
doi: 10.1590/abd1806-4841.20142857.

Arthritis and diagnosis of leprosy: a case report and review of the literature

Tania Rita Moreno de Oliveira Fernandes  1 , Juliana Pedrosa Korinfskin  1 , Mariana Mercês Mesquita Espíndola  1 , Lis Moreno de Oliveira Corrêa  2
Affiliations
Review

Arthritis and diagnosis of leprosy: a case report and review of the literature

Tania Rita Moreno de Oliveira Fernandes et al. An Bras Dermatol. 2014 Mar-Apr.

Abstract

Leprosy is clinically characterized by involvement of peripheral nerves and skin. The immunological profile of the individual defines the diversity of clinical manifestations, from skin disorders to systemic manifestations, especially the articulation ones, common in multibacillary forms, which may mimic collagen diseases and often posing diagnostic difficulties in endemic areas. This is a case report of asymmetric polyarthritis of small and large articulations associated with skin lesions which had been treated by a rheumatologist for 2 years with initial clinical diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis, and later, with the appearance of skin lesions, of systemic lupus erythematosus.

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Conflict of interest statement

Conflict of interest: None

Figures

FIGURE 1
FIGURE 1
Erythematous nodules on thighs. Hand with edema and erythema. Fifth finger in moving claw
FIGURE 2
FIGURE 2
Erythematous nodules on face
FIGURE 3
FIGURE 3
Edema on both feet
FIGURE 4
FIGURE 4
Intradermal smear with alcohol-acid resistant bacillus, single and in small groups
FIGURE 5
FIGURE 5
Edema regression on feet 2 months after start of treatment
FIGURE 6
FIGURE 6
Regression of lesions on face 2 months after treatment
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