Atypical presentations of cutaneous tuberculosis: Series of 10 cases.

Cutaneous tuberculosis classically presents as Lupus vulgaris, scrofuloderma, tuberculosis verrucose cutis and tubercular abscess. Hypersensitivity reaction to the bacilli leads to Lichen scrofulosorum and papulonecrotic tuberculids. At the same time, it can have myriad of clinical presentations, many of which are still undescribed. It is important to regularly update ourselves with these unusual manifestations so as to ensure early treatment and reduction of overall morbidity. In this case series tuberculosis manifesting as rapidly progressing diffuse facial granulomas, sporotrichoid tuberculosis, tuberculosis mimicking squamous cell carcinoma, scrofuloderma as tubercular ulcer, lupus vulgaris with nasal septal perforation, lupus vulgaris resembling furuncle, psoriasis, dermatitis and BT Hansen are described in immunocompetent individuals. These cases highlight the importance of recognition of atypical forms of cutaneous tuberculosis to minimize scarring and dissemination of bacilli.

Dapsone syndrome in Goa.

Daspone syndrome was noted within six weeks of starting treatment in 1.3% of about 700 leprosy patients on MDT reporting to the skin department of Goa Medical College. Skin rash, photosensitivity, fever, lymphadenopathy, sore throat, hepatosplenomegaly, abnormal liver function tests and raised reticulocyte count were consistent features in all the patients. Other drugs, infectious mononucleosis and viral exanthemata were considered in differential diagnosis. Withdrawal of dapsone and administration of prednisolone controlled the condition within three to four weeks in majority of the patients. One patient died of ischemic heart disease unrelated to dapsone syndrome.