Early signs of leprosy in children.

Abstract

Leprosy in children is more frequent than generally thought. Diagnosis is not easily made because early signs of the diseases are overlooked. Statistic data from the Dermatologic Clinic Pascua of Mexico City reveal that early signs are cutaneous in 67% of cases: hypochromic and anesthetic infiltration, nodules, and alopecia of eyebrows and eyelashes. Neurological symptoms such as anesthesis, facial paralysis, thickening of nerves and trophic problems are present in 19.3% of cases. The nose mucosae are congested in 9.2% of cases. Systemic manifestations may be present in 4% of cases. Examination of contacts living with lepromatous patients is stressed as the best way to discover the early signs of the disease. Dermatological consultation in general and pediatric hospitals is also recommended. If diagnosis is delayed, leprosy can induce physical, psychological and social disabilitation of the patient.