Case Reports
12 February 2025
Early Access
Lucio phenomenon: a case report on an overlooked reaction in lepromatous leprosy
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All claims expressed in this article are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily represent those of their affiliated organizations, or those of the publisher, the editors and the reviewers. Any product that may be evaluated in this article or claim that may be made by its manufacturer is not guaranteed or endorsed by the publisher.
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Our patient presented with a 5-year history of chronic, asymptomatic papulonodular lesions on the extremities. The lesions spread to the face and earlobes, with new ulcerative lesions on both legs for the past 8 months. Skin biopsy was compatible with lepromatous leprosy with Lucio phenomenon. Lucio phenomenon is a rare type of leprosy reaction found mostly in neglected lepromatous leprosy cases. Unfortunately, the patient developed pulmonary embolism and passed away. This case report focuses on the clinicopathological characteristics and management of Lucio phenomenon, which is an unusual form of leprosy reaction that often carries a poorer prognosis. Importantly, physicians should be able to differentiate Lucio phenomenon from other types of leprosy reactions for prompt management.
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How to Cite
Lucio phenomenon: a case report on an overlooked reaction in lepromatous leprosy. (2025). Dermatology Reports. https://doi.org/10.4081/dr.2025.10173
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