Intralesional pentoxifylline in the treatment of lepromatous ulcers

Background: Different methods of treatment have been used in the management of lepromatous ulcers, but the outcomes are frequently dissatisfactory, and many patients must live with chronic wounds that result in high economic and social costs or patients have to lose the affected limb. Objective: To assess the efficacy of intralesional pentoxifylline (PTX) in the treatment of lepromatous ulcers. Patients and methods: This randomized-controlled study was carried out on 40 patients with lepromatous ulcers of different sizes, depths, and durations. Patients were divided into two groups: the trial group (20 patients), were injected intralesionally with PTX (300 mg) at weekly intervals for eight sessions, and the control group (20 patients), received placebo. Lesions were photographed and the depth of ulcers was measured during each session. Results: Complete closure of the ulcers was observed in 50% of lepromatous ulcers in the trial group injected with PTX and in 10% of lepromatous ulcers in the control group. There were no side effects at all, except tolerable pain during the injection, which resolved by the end of the session. Conclusion: Intralesional PTX has good efficacy and a high success rate in the treatment of lepromatous ulcers.