Effects of a synthetic extract (thymopentin) on the immune system of lepromatous leprosy patients.

Twenty three patients with lepromatous leprosy (LL) not in reactional phase and bacteriologically negative were evaluated for their immune status (T cell frequency and interferon gamma production). In six patients with deficits of both immune parameters, a synthetic thymic extract (TP-5) was administered. At the end of the treatment, a full recovery of immune dysfunction was observed. In the light of these results, the efficacy of TP-5 as an immunomodulating agent in LL patients is discussed.