BEYOND THE SURFACE: DISTINGUISHING LEPROSY FROM FUNGAL MIMICS – A CASE REPORT

Norrifhan Akmal Ismail; Nurjasmine Aida Jamani; Nur Shairah Mohd Shaari

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BEYOND THE SURFACE: DISTINGUISHING LEPROSY FROM FUNGAL MIMICS – A CASE REPORT

Author: Norrifhan Akmal Ismail ¹ ; Nurjasmine Aida Jamani ² ; Nur Shairah Mohd Shaari ³
Author Information

1. Family Health Clinic IIUM, Department of Family Medicine, Kuliyyah of Medicine, International Islamic University of Malaysia, Jalan Sultan Ahmad Shah, Bandar Indera Mahkota, Kuantan, Pahang, Malaysia.
2. Department of Family Medicine, Kuliyyah of Medicine, International Islamic University of Malaysia, Jalan Sultan Ahmad Shah, Bandar Indera Mahkota, Kuantan, Pahang, Malaysia.
3. Klinik Kesihatan Tersang, Felda Tersang, Raub, Pahang, Malaysia.
Publication Type:Case Reports
Keywords: Hypopigmentation; Leprosy; Misdiagnosis
From:Malaysian Family Physician 2025;20(1):1-5
CountryMalaysia
Language:English
Abstract: BEYOND THE SURFACE: DISTINGUISHING LEPROSY FROM FUNGAL MIMICS – A CASE REPORT: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.
Full text:2026102908303426166Beyond the surface.pdf