Bone changes in leprosy: a correlation of clinical and radiographic features

Characteristic bone lesions in leprosy affect the small bones of the face, hands, and feet. They are due directly to leprous infection imposed upon denervated tissues. The manifestations of leprous bone infection vary from the presence of bacilli in the bone to actual destruction. Distal absorption involves fingers and toes with the loss of digits. Combined absorption of lenght and width of bone often affects the metatarsophalangeal joints. Tarsal absorption patterns are determined by abnormal weight-bearing forces and infection.