Leprosy in children (aged <15 years old): observational trends in a ten-year study in a tertiary hospital in Yogyakarta, Indonesia

Background Leprosy remains a public health issue in developing countries. Cases of leprosy in children indicate ongoing community transmission, and delayed diagnosis increases the risk of disability. Data on the trends and clinical profile of leprosy in children in a tertiary care setting in Indonesia remain limited. Objectives To report the clinical profile, disability, and contact history of leprosy in children over 10 years in a tertiary hospital in a developing country. Methods A retrospective review was conducted using medical records of new child leprosy cases (<15 years) diagnosed between 2013 and 2023 at Dr. Sardjito General Hospital, Yogyakarta. Data collected included demographics, clinical classification, reactions, disability grades, contact history, and detection mode. Results Of 631 leprosy patients, 26 (4.12) were children. Most cases occurred in the 10-15 year age group, with the youngest aged 6 years. The male-to-female ratio was 1.3:1. Multibacillary (MB) and paucibacillary (PB) cases were evenly distributed, with borderline tuberculoid (38.5) being the most frequent subtype. Disabilities were more common in MB cases, with 3.8 grade 1 and 11.5 grade 2 disability, compared with 7.7 grade 2 disability among PB cases. A history of contact with leprosy patients was reported in 38.5 of children. Conclusion Leprosy in children represented 4 of new cases over the past decade, showing a fluctuating but declining trend. The presence of MB cases, disabilities, and positive contact with leprosy patients highlights ongoing community spread. Strengthening early detection, contact tracing, and timely treatment is crucial to prevent disability and interrupt transmission of the disease. © The author(s).