The "Lucio Phenomenon" in Diffuse Leprosy

Abstract

The development of the Lucio Phenomenon is described in a patient with diffuse leprosy following amputation of a leg for a soft tissue sarcoma. This rare, but distinctive, lepra reaction occurred after the development of bacterial infection in the stump. The possible relationship of Lucio''s phenomenon, which consists of acute nee rot iz ing vasculitis, to a unique hypersensltlvlty state Is discussed. The difficulty In making a diagnosis of a lepra reaction in a patient with lepromatous leprosy is emphasized.