The potential role of magnetic resonance imaging in patients with Hansen's neuropathy of the feet: a preliminary communication.

ABSTRACT

A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) protocol was performed in leprosy patients with a neuropathic foot and superficial ulcers and/or localized cellulitis but no clinical suspicion of osteomyelitis. The aim of the study was to determine if unsuspected osteomyelitis was present in this defined group of leprosy patients. A total of 15 neuropathic feet from 9 patients were included. Clinically and on MRI, the forefoot was predominantly affected. MRI findings of osteomyelitis were found in 4 feet. In feet with osteomyelitis, 3 had a superficial ulcer and 3 had clinical signs of localized cellulitis. A clinical diagnosis of cellulitis was confirmed on MRI in 2 feet.A striking discrepancy between clinical and MRI findings was found.This study shows that, compared with clinical evaluation, MRI is a sensitive method for the detection of unsuspected osteomyelitis in neuropathic feet with superficial ulcers and/or cellulitis. MRI findings in this group of patients may influence clinical decision making and may prevent further complications, because osteomyelitis requires more aggressive medical treatment. This preliminary communication should pave the wave for designed controlled studies so that patients with Hansen's neuropathy may get the best medical care.