Clofazimine-enhanced phagocytosis in pustulosis palmaris et plantaris

The phagocytic ability of neutrophil leucocytes was found to be impaired in patients suffering from pustulosis palmaris et plantaris (PPP). This ability was studied with the aid of the yeast particle method. In 78% of 27 patients whose PPP was in a static phase, the phagocytic function was enhanced, while the PPP abated concomitantly and the pustules disappeared. Impaired phagocytosis and the beneficial effect of clofazimine signify the pathogenic importance of defective neutrophils in PPP.