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What physical changes can lepromatous leprosy cause in the face?

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In lepromatous leprosy, the lack of a strong cellular immune response allows the bacteria to multiply freely and spread through the skin's lymphatic channels, frequently affecting the face.1

Physical changes to the face include:

  • Skin Texture: The skin becomes thickened and corrugated, often resulting in a characteristic "leonine" (lion-like) appearance.1
  • Nodules: Soft nodules develop on the ears, nose, and cheeks, which may occasionally erode into discharging sores.1
  • Structural Damage: The nose often harbors large numbers of bacteria, which can lead to the destruction of the nasal septum and the palate.1

These changes are part of the progressive disfigurement associated with the disease, which occurs as the infection spreads widely through the skin.1