The efficacy of clofazimine (Lamprene) was analysed retrospectively in twenty one patients with anoperineal lesions (APL) of Crohn's disease. Clofazimine is known for its antimycobacterial, antiinflammatory and immunomodifier properties. It is used with success in leprosy and certain dermatological disorders. A number of clinical and laboratory arguments suggest the probability of a role of mycobacteria in the etiology of Crohn's disease.
Methods: twenty one patients with ileo-colono-anal or bucco-colono-anal Crohn's disease formed the basis of this study. They had been treated in various ways for APL, without success. They had APL of varying degrees of advancement (primary lesions: seven cases; secondary lesions: ten cases; major advanced lesions: four cases). Treatment with Lamprene was given for three to 38 months (mean: 12 months), the mean cumulative dose being 40 grams (4 to 146). Other therapeutic measures were started simultaneously in twelve patients: medical in six cases, medico-surgical in four cases and surgical only in two cases. The aim of treatment in fourteen cases was to obtain the healing of ulcerated lesions and/or fistulas, in three patients to delay dilatation sessions and in four patients to avoid proctectomy in the short-term.
Results: ten patients showed no improvement while eleven were improved (with regression of primary lesions in ten cases). Taking combined treatment into consideration, the link between the result obtained and Lamprene was considered probable in five cases, possible in four cases and uncertain in one case. Lamprene was well tolerated in general. It was not possible to evaluate the efficacy of treatment regarding intestinal disease.
Conclusion: the efficacy of Lamprene in ano-perineal lesions of Crohn's disease is possible and is worthy of evaluation in a controlled trial.