Effect of Phenytoin in Wound Healing: A Review

Phenytoin (diphenlhydantion or Dilantin) is a highly effective and widely prescribed anticonvulsant agent and antiarrhythmic agent in the treatment of grand mal and psychomotor epilepsy. Phentoin was introduced into therapy in 1937 for effective convulsive disorder with a common side effect being gingival hyperplasia. In dermatology due to the stimulatory effect on the connective tissue it is used in wound healing treatment such as diabetic ulcer which affects almost 15% of diabetic individuals, Decubitus ulcer or also known as bed sore or pressure ulcer, chronic leg ulcer and epidermolysis simplex bullosa. The mechanism of action of phenytoin is it increases gene express of the platelet-derived growth factor B chain in macrophages and monocytes. Healthy granulation tissue appears earlier. Common side effects of phenytoin which occurs due to long term use are Gingival Hyperplasia, Coarsening of the facies, Enlargement of the lips and thickening of the scalp and face. Keyword: Phenytoin, wound healing, diabetic ulcer, periodontitis