A new therapeutic approach to type II leprosy reaction.

BACKGROUND

An increase in tumor necrosis factor (TNF) has been implicated in type II leprosy reaction. Thalidomide, which inhibits TNF, is an effective drug, but has severe side-effects in pregnant women. Other therapeutic drugs are required.

METHODS

Clofazimine and pentoxifylline were evaluated for their efficacy against severe type II leprosy reaction in four patients (three men and one woman).

RESULTS

All four patients showed a similar fast response to treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

The results obtained in this study are promising; however, clofazimine and pentoxifylline must be evaluated in a larger group of patients in order to determine their value in controlling type II leprosy reaction.