Evaluation of the orofacial lesions in treated leprosy patients

BACKGROUND: Leprosy is primarily a disease of developmental countries. About 4 million people have or are disabled by leprosy. Eighty-six percent of leprosy patients reside in Southeast Asia and Brazil. India accounts for up to 70% of total cases. AIM: To evaluate the incidence of orofacial lesions in treated leprosy patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Thirty treated leprosy patients were examined clinically and the percentage of orofacial lesions were evaluated. RESULTS: On evaluating the orofacial lesions, incidence of hypopigmentation on face and oral mucosa were highest (63%) followed by depressed nasal bridge and fissured tongue (33%). The incidence of crenated tongue was seen to be the lowest (3.3%). CONCLUSION: Orofacial lesions in leprosy patients develop insidiously, generally are asymptomatic and are secondary to nasal changes. Oral lesions may contribute to the diagnosis of the disease and be attributed to involvement of Mycobacterium leprae.