Clofazimine, used in multibacillary leprosy and MDR-TB regimens, has an additional anti-inflammatory mechanism relevant to type 2 lepra reactions. This mechanism is:
- A Inhibition of T-lymphocyte proliferation and neutrophil chemotaxis independent of its antimicrobial activity ✓
- B Inhibition of phospholipase A2 reducing arachidonic acid availability for prostaglandin synthesis
- C Preferential binding to mycobacterial DNA guanine residues inhibiting RNA transcription
- D Generation of reactive oxygen species selectively toxic to neutrophils at inflammatory sites
Correct answer: A. Inhibition of T-lymphocyte proliferation and neutrophil chemotaxis independent of its antimicrobial activity
Explanation
Clofazimine is a riminophenazine dye with dual action: antimycobacterial activity via redox cycling generating reactive oxygen species and disrupting mycobacterial membrane integrity, plus a separate anti-inflammatory effect of inhibiting lymphocyte proliferation and neutrophil migration. This anti-inflammatory property is clinically exploited to suppress erythema nodosum leprosum (Type 2 lepra reaction), reducing reliance on high-dose corticosteroids or thalidomide in ENL.
Reference: KD Tripathi, Essentials of Medical Pharmacology, 8th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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