Breast Involvement in Leprosy: An Overlooked Clinical Manifestation in Women’s Health

Leprosy, or Hansen’s disease, is a chronic infectious condition caused by Mycobacterium leprae, primarily affecting the skin, peripheral nerves, and mucous membranes. Although well recognized for its dermatological and neurological features, involvement of breast tissue in women remains poorly documented and often underdiagnosed. Breast lesions associated with leprosy are clinically significant because they may closely resemble other common breast conditions, such as carcinoma and tuberculosis, leading to misdiagnosis and unnecessary surgical interventions.

This paper explores the clinical spectrum, diagnostic challenges, and implications of leprosy affecting the female breast. Breast manifestations may include nodules, ulceration, mastitis, or nipple–areolar complex changes, often accompanied by sensory loss in the overlying skin. Histopathological examination and demonstration of acid-fast bacilli remain the gold standards for diagnosis, while clinical suspicion should be heightened in endemic regions. A major challenge lies in differentiating leprosy-induced breast lesions from malignancy or tubercular mastitis, both of which carry significant treatment and psychosocial implications.

Highlighting the intersection between infectious diseases and women’s health, this study underscores the importance of multidisciplinary awareness among dermatologists, breast surgeons, gynecologists, and pathologists. Early identification and initiation of multidrug therapy not only prevent systemic complications but also reduce the risk of disfigurement, stigma, and unnecessary surgical procedures. Given the rarity of reports, further research is essential to determine the true prevalence, clinical patterns, and long-term outcomes of breast involvement in leprosy.

This work aims to draw attention to a neglected manifestation of Hansen’s disease, advocating for broader clinical vigilance and public health awareness in endemic regions.