Multiple Beau's Lines due to Recurrent Erythema Nodosum Leprosum

To the Editor.—  Beau's lines are transverse grooves on the nail plate that develop as a consequence of any acute illness or stressful condition. First described by Beau in 1846,¹ they occur as a result of myocardial infarction, measles, mumps, pneumonia, or pulmonary embolism.² A case is described where multiple Beau's lines were observed in a patient in whom the lines could be attributed to recurrent attacks of erythema nodosum leprosum, or a type 2 lepra reaction.

Report of a Case.—  A 36-year-old man, who had been diagnosed as having lepromatous leprosy 2 years ago, was receiving multidrug therapy in the form of dapsone (100 mg/d), rifampicin (600 mg once a month), and clofazimine (300 mg once a month, and 50 mg/d). He presented to us for continuation of multidrug therapy, as he had moved. On examination, in addition to the thickening of the ulnar, common peroneal, and