[en] The healing process of some chronic leg ulcers may prove to be problematic. Success is in part conditioned by the interference of keratinocytes with both the bacterial flora present in the ulcer bed, and by the quality of the granulation tissue. The antiseptic activity of povidone-iodine (PVP-I) is acknowledged. We report the paradoxical facet of the beneficial cytotoxic effect of PVP-I on the healing process. The beneficial effect on blood vessels and dermal dendrocytes of the granulation tissue is also emphasized.