Paper II — 2017 August (Supplementary) (2010 Scheme) — Q10

Paper II

2017 August (Supplementary) (2010 Scheme) · 40 marks · 120 min

Question

Pharmacological basis for the use of thalidomide in lepra reaction

Q101 marksShort Answers★✓

Answer

Thalidomide has anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties, notably inhibiting TNF-alpha production. Type 2 lepra reaction (Erythema Nodosum Leprosum, ENL) is an immune complex-mediated (Type III hypersensitivity) inflammatory reaction, driven substantially by TNF-alpha. By suppressing TNF-alpha, thalidomide effectively controls the inflammatory manifestations of ENL (tender nodules, fever, neuritis), making it the drug of choice for this reaction — though it is contraindicated in women of childbearing potential due to severe teratogenicity (phocomelia).

Related Concepts

1. 1Antileprotic Drugs

Other Years Asked

1. 1(2023 July (Supplementary) (2019 Scheme)Short Essay · 8 marks
2. 2Thalidomide2018 February (2010 Scheme)Short Note · 3 marks
3. 3Lepra reaction2015 February (2010 Scheme)Short Note · 3 marks
4. 4Multi bacillary leprosy.2013 September (Supplementary) (2010 Scheme)Short Answer · 1 mark
5. 5Clofazimine2019 July (Supplementary) (2010 Scheme)Short Answer · 1 mark
6. 6Lepra reactions2013 April (2010 Scheme)Short Answer · 1 mark
7. 7Uses of clofazimine2016 February (2010 Scheme)Short Answer · 1 mark
8. 8Drugs useful in Lepra reaction.2019 July (Supplementary) (2010 Scheme)Short Answer · 0.3 marks
9. 9Drugs used for Lepra reaction2023 July (Supplementary) (2010 Scheme)Short Answer · 0.3 marks
10. 10Drugs for treating Lepra reaction2024 March (Supplementary) (2019 Scheme)Short Answer · 0.2 marks
11. 11Antileprotic drugs.2023 January (Supplementary) (2019 Scheme)Short Answer · 0.2 marks