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Unmasking the mimic: Leprosy neuropathy misdiagnosed as chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy: A case report from Saudi Arabia

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Leprosy neuropathy can mimic chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP), especially in non-endemic areas. We report a 72-year-old Saudi woman initially misdiagnosed with CIDP based on nerve conduction studies. The patient presented with widespread pruritus, erythematous cutaneous lesions, and progressive sensorimotor symptoms. Despite treatment with intravenous immunoglobulin, her condition worsened. Subsequent sural nerve and skin biopsies revealed acid-fast bacilli, confirming leprosy. This case highlights the importance of considering leprosy in the differential diagnosis of neuropathies, even in regions where it is rare. Nerve ultrasound, a valuable diagnostic tool in differentiating leprosy from CIDP, should be incorporated into the diagnostic workup of atypical neuropathies.

Source: Neurosciences

DOI: 10.17712/nsj.2025.2.20240057

Authors: Muteb K. AlOtaibi, Bashaier G. AlQahtani, Raniah M. AlQawahmed

Institution: Riyadh Armed Forces Hospital

Language: English

Topic: Leprosy Research and Treatment

Subfield: Infectious Diseases

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: diamond

OpenAlex ID: W4409270754