Medication Summary
Therapy for this condition is not mandatory, and several factors should be weighed prior to treatment. The factors that should be considered include the extent to which the disease disturbs the patient and the potential adverse effects of the medication.
Iodine products
Class Summary
Treatment with intralesional steroids may be effective. Otherwise, systemic medications, such as potassium iodide or dapsone, are used.
Potassium iodide (SSKI, Pima)
Potassium iodide is most commonly used therapy for this condition. It works via potassium concentration in granulomas, which releases heparin and inhibits delayed-type hypersensitivity response. Response should be seen in all patients in 2-3 weeks.
Leprostatic agents
Class Summary
These agents may have immunomodulatory effects. Dapsone has been reported as being a successful treatment of subacute migratory panniculitis, but treatment is not well established.
Dapsone (Avlosulfon)
Dapsone is bactericidal and bacteriostatic against mycobacteria; its mechanism of action is similar to that of sulfonamides, where competitive antagonists of PABA prevent formation of folic acid, inhibiting bacterial growth.
Triamcinolone (Aristocort, Aristospan)
Triamcinolone decreases inflammation by suppressing migration of PMN leukocytes and reversing capillary permeability. Intralesional injections may be used for localized skin disorders.
