Leprous neuropathy

Purpose of review: Leprosy is still an important cause of neuropathy. Late diagnosis is associated with development of severe nerve impairment.

Recent findings: early diagnosis and early treatment is essential in order to avoid disability and disease transmission. Recognizing that leprosy is a neurological disease is a fundamental step to the Leprosy zero action proposed by the World Health Organization.

Summary: leprosy neuropathy manifests as a mononeuropathy or a multiple mononeuropathy with a temperature-dependent distribution. Electromyography, high-resolution sonography serology and PCR help make the diagnosis. Multidrug therapy should be instituted.