Childhood leprosy: a current appraisal

Leprosy is a disease of great antiquity that affects individuals of all ages and backgrounds. Despite consolidated global control efforts, the disease has remained endemic in many regional pockets. In this regard, particular epidemiological attention is paid to childhood infection as it highlights disease transmission. Children are especially susceptible to leprosy due to their immature immunity and potential intrafamilial contact sources. This provides an opportunity to detect the index case, usually within the family. Leprosy in children has the potential to cause progressive physical deformity, with consequent psychosocial impacts on both the child and the caregiver family. This narrative review focuses on leprosy in the paediatric population, encompassing epidemiological, clinical, diagnostic and therapeutic aspects.