Childhood leprosy: a current appraisal

Leprosy is a disease of great antiquity that affects individuals of all age groups and background. Despite consolidated global efforts, the disease has remained endemic in many regional pockets. In this regard, childhood affliction draws special epidemiological attention as it spotlights disease transmission. Children are particularly susceptible to this disease due to their immature immunity and potential intra-familial contact sources. This provides an opportunity to detect the index case, usually within the family. Leprosy in children harbours the potential to cause progressive physical deformity, with consequent psychosocial impact of on both the child and the care-giver family. Our narrative review focusses on leprosy in the paediatric population encompassing epidemiological, clinical, diagnostics, and therapeutic aspects.