Beyond the surface: distinguishing leprosy from fungal mimics – a case report

Jamani, Nurjasmine Aida and Ismail, Norrifhan Akmal and Mohd Shaari, Nur Shairah (2025) Beyond the surface: distinguishing leprosy from fungal mimics – a case report. Malaysian Family Physician, 20 (NA). pp. 1-5. ISSN 1985-207X E-ISSN 1985-2274

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Abstract

Leprosy, a chronic infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium leprae, remains a significant public health concern in many developing countries, including Malaysia. Continuous monitoring and effective diagnostic strategies are crucial for curbing its transmission. The insidious nature of leprosy, characterised by slow progression and diverse clinical manifestations, often leads to delayed diagnosis, increasing the risk of irreversible nerve damage and subsequent disabilities. We report the case of a 55-year-old man who had leprosy presenting with chronic generalised hypopigmented lesions and was misdiagnosed with a fungal infection. Early detection and accurate differentiation from other hypopigmented skin conditions are crucial for timely intervention and the prevention of long-term complications.

Item Type:	Article (Case Report)
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Hypopigmentation, Leprosy,Misdiagnosis
Subjects:	R Medicine > RL Dermatology
Kulliyyahs/Centres/Divisions/Institutes (Can select more than one option. Press CONTROL button):	Kulliyyah of Medicine Kulliyyah of Medicine > Department of Family Medicine (Effective: 1st January 2011)
Depositing User:	Dr Nurjasmine Aida Jamani
Date Deposited:	21 Nov 2025 16:26
Last Modified:	21 Nov 2025 16:26
Queue Number:	2025-11-Q076
URI:	http://irep.iium.edu.my/id/eprint/124500

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