Key clinical message

Leprosy can often present with symptoms resembling rheumatoid arthritis, leading to delays in diagnosis or inappropriate treatment that may progress to a lepromatous form, resulting in neuropathy and disability. Physicians and rheumatologists need to consider leprosy as a differential diagnosis in the patients presenting as rheumatoid arthritis, particularly in those from leprosy endemic regions. Early detection is vital to prevent chronic neuropathy, physical and functional disabilities, and disfigurement in affected individuals.