Emergence of Mycobacterium leprae Rifampin Resistance Evaluated by Whole-Genome Sequencing after 48 Years of Irregular Treatment

Antimicrob Agents Chemother. 2020 Jun 23;64(7):e00330-20. doi: 10.1128/AAC.00330-20. Print 2020 Jun 23.

Abstract

A case of Mycobacterium leprae rifampin resistance after irregular antileprosy treatments since 1971 is reported. Whole-genome sequencing from four longitudinal samples indicated relapse due to acquired rifampin resistance and not to reinfection with another strain. A putative compensatory mutation in rpoC was also detected. Clinical improvement was achieved using an alternative therapy.

Keywords: Mycobacterium leprae; leprosy; relapse emergence; resistance; rifampin; treatment; whole-genome sequencing.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Leprosy* / drug therapy
  • Mutation
  • Mycobacterium leprae* / genetics
  • Recurrence
  • Rifampin / pharmacology

Substances

  • Rifampin