Efficacy of Pentoxifylline in the Treatment of Oral Sub Mucous Fibrosis - a Pilot Study

Objective: This study was designed to determine the effect of Pentoxifylline on the clinical and pathologic course of Oral Submucous Fibrosis (OSMF). Methods: This study was conducted as a randomized clinical trial incorporating a control group (antioxidant therapy, Tab Lycored once daily) in comparison to Pentoxifylline test cases (400mg 3 times daily, tablets). The treatment period was 3 months and a total of 50 cases of advanced fibrosis were included in this study. Results: Review of the patients and controls was done at an interval of 30 days and subjective and objective measurements were recorded. Significant comparisons with regard to improvement were recorded as objective criteria of mouth opening, tongue movement and protrusion, relief from perioral fibrotic bands and coexisting lesions. Subjective symptoms of burning sensation of mouth, tinnitus, difficulty in swallowing, and difficulty in speech were also recorded. Statistical analysis done using t test, Mann-Whitney test and follow up data at each visit with respect to each other was calibrated using ANOVA test. Conclusion: The drug Pentoxifylline is said to have the property of suppressing leukocyte function while altering fibroblast physiology and stimulating fibrinolysis. This investigation points to the effectiveness of Pentoxifylline as an adjunct therapy in the routine management of OSMF.