Dapsone (Disulone®) en dermatologie

Abstract

Dapsone is a sulfone discovered in 1908. Since the 1940s, it is the gold standard in the treatment of leprosy. Dapsone indications have been extended to inflammatory dermatoses and other infections. These indications are based on its antibiotic and immunomodulatory effects. Its bioavailability and half-life characteristics allow single daily dose. Dapsone is metabolised by two enzymatic paths: N-acetylation and N-hydroxylation. The latter may result in dose-related side effects: haemolytic anaemia and methemoglobinaemia. Dapsone is also associated with idiosyncratic side effects (agranulocytosis, hypersensitivity syndrome).