Lazarine Leprosy: A Rare Case Report

Dr. Sarthak Goyal, Dr. Neha Mehta, Dr. Md. Raihan, Dr. Kanika Roy

Abstract: Lazarine leprosy is a rare and severe ulcerative variant of leprosy, marked by spontaneous necrotic ulceration of pre-existing skin lesions. Originally described in the 19th century, the condition derives its name from the biblical figure Lazarus due to its dramatic ulcerative appearance that resembles necrotizing skin diseases. It is most commonly seen in borderline forms of leprosy and is often associated with Type 1 lepra reaction, resulting from an exaggerated cell-mediated immune response to Mycobacterium leprae antigens. Because of its rarity and clinical overlap, Lazarine leprosy can easily be mistaken for other ulcerative dermatoses, including pyoderma gangrenosum, cutaneous tuberculosis, vasculitis, and necrotizing infections. We report the case of a middle-aged male who presented with painful ulcerative lesions over the elbow. Examination revealed erythematous plaques with deep necrotic ulcerations, crusting, and serous discharge. Histopathological analysis confirmed leprosy. The patient was started on World Health Organization (WHO) multidrug therapy (MDT) along with supportive wound management, leading to progressive healing, granulation tissue formation, epithelization, and eventual scar development. This case underscores the importance of recognizing Lazarine leprosy in clinical practice to prevent misdiagnosis and inappropriate therapy. Early initiation of MDT, supplemented with anti-inflammatory measures when indicated, can yield favorable outcomes. In endemic regions, clinicians should maintain a high degree of suspicion when evaluating atypical ulcerative lesions. Reporting such cases contributes to the limited global literature and enhances awareness among dermatologists and leprologists.

Keywords: Lazarine leprosy, ulcerative variant, rare case report, dermatology, necrotic ulceration, lepra reaction

How to Cite?: Dr. Sarthak Goyal, Dr. Neha Mehta, Dr. Md. Raihan, Dr. Kanika Roy, "Lazarine Leprosy: A Rare Case Report", Volume 14 Issue 10, October 2025, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 913-916, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR251016111200, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR251016111200