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.