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Signs and Symptoms of Leprosy (Cont.)

Signs and Symptoms of Lepromatous Leprosy

Lepromatous leprosy (also known as multibacillary leprosy) is the severe form of leprosy. Signs and symptoms of lepromatous leprosy can include a symmetrical skin rash more commonly found on the:
 
  • Elbows
  • Knees
  • Buttocks
  • Face
  • Ears
  • Wrists.
 
This skin rash can be:
 
  • Small or large
  • Flat or raised
  • Light or dark.
 
Other signs and symptoms include:
 
  • Thinning of eyebrows and eyelashes
  • Thickened skin on face
  • Nasal stuffiness
  • Bloody nose
  • Laryngitis
  • Collapsing of the nose
  • Swelling of the lymph nodes in the groin and armpits
  • Scarring of the testes that leads to infertility
  • Enlargement of male breasts (gynecomastia).
 

Signs and Symptoms of Leprosy and Associated Complications

Leprosy is probably the most common cause of crippling in the hands worldwide. Leprosy complications can include:
 
  • Blindness
  • Loss of fingers or toes following an injury or infection
  • An increased risk for arthritis and amyloidosis.
 
Worldwide, 1 to 2 million people are permanently disabled because of leprosy.
 

Signs and Symptoms of Leprosy: A Summary

These possible signs and symptoms of leprosy (especially early symptoms) can be similar to symptoms seen with other medical conditions. Therefore, people with possible symptoms of leprosy should see their doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD