Pruritus as a possible premonitory symptom of leprosy

Leprosy Mailing List,
May 22nd, 2009
Ref.: Pruritus as a possible premonitory symptom of leprosy
From: Pai V. V., Ganapati R., Mumbai, India

Dear Dr Noto,

With the exception of a few responders who have pointed out pruritus as a possible premonitory symptom of leprosy, others have explained in detail about associated skin diseases.

We agree with remarks from these experts as regards other skin conditions. However, the object of pointing out our experience with patients complaining of a subjective feeling of itching as the presenting symptom in leprosy patients is restricted to those un-associated with other conditions causing pruritus. We appreciate that some observers have noticed this symptom prior to the occurrence of lesions due to reactions and relapses.

Moreover, we would like to have some light to be thrown on the patho-physiology of this phenomenon rarely encountered exclusively in leprosy.

Regards,

Dr VV Pai
Director
Bombay Leprosy Project
and Dr R Ganapati
Director Emeritus, BLP