LUPUS VULGARIS-THE UNSHACKLING OF FENRIR- A CASE SERIES

Background: - Lupus Vulgaris is the most common form of cutaneous tuberculosis and accounts for 75% of the cases of cutaneous tuberculosis and 1-2% of all tuberculosis cases. The paucibacillary nature of the disease in some instances, makes it extremely difcult to diagnose, even when histopathology and amplication techniques like Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) are employed. Dermatologists must also be aware of the protean clinical manifestations of this condition as its often misdiagnosed when the index of suspicion is low. We rep Case Series: - ort a series of ve cases of lupus vulgaris among which three have atypical presentation which mimicked Hansen's disease, Discoid lupus erythematosus, Seborrheic dermatitis. Each case was diagnosed with the aid of clinical, laboratory reports and histopathological examination correlation. Lupus Vulgaris is arguably a great mimic, as it can present in a myriad Discussion And Conclusion: - of forms. Strong clinical suspicion, histopathology and response to anti-tubercular therapy may be needed for diagnosis especially when culture and polymerase chain reaction assays are not available or non-contributory. The association of lupus vulgaris and its various presentations with systemic tuberculosis make it essential to have a clear understanding of this condition and early diagnosis and management is the key to prevent the disguring and destructive nature of this disease.