ABSTRACT Leprosy and tuberculosis (TB) are both chronic granulomatous infections caused by bacilli of the genus Mycobacterium . The simultaneous occurrence of cutaneous tuberculosis and leprosy is rare. We report a 56‐year‐old male presenting with painful erythematous nodules and plaques over the face and extremities for 1 week, along with asymptomatic right axillary lesions for 1 year. Examination revealed tender nodules and plaques with ulceration on the face and extremities, and firm, matted subcutaneous nodules with sinus tracts in the axilla. Sensory loss in a glove‐and‐stocking distribution and peripheral nerve enlargement were also noted. Slit‐skin smear demonstrated a Bacteriological Index of 6+, while histopathology of the axillary lesion showed caseous necrosis with epithelioid granulomas. The patient was diagnosed with lepromatous leprosy in type 2 lepra reaction with scrofuloderma and treated with modified multibacillary multidrug therapy, anti‐tubercular therapy, and corticosteroids, achieving a favorable clinical response. This case report aims to describe a rare co‐occurrence of leprosy and tuberculosis, highlighting the immunological interplay between the two conditions and the importance of comprehensive diagnostic evaluation and individualized management in endemic settings.
Khadka et al. (Thu,) studied this question.