J Cosmet Dermatol. 2022 Jun 21. doi: 10.1111/jocd.15173. Online ahead of print.
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Management of multiple recalcitrant common warts represents a therapeutic challenge. Both oral isotretinoin and acitretin have shown a promising efficacy in the treatment of various types of warts. However, a comparative study of the two medicines in wart treatment hasn’t yet been conducted.
OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy and adverse effects of oral isotretinoin versus acitretin in the treatment of multiple recalcitrant common warts.
METHODS: This study was conducted on 75 adult male patients with recalcitrant multiple common warts. The patients were randomly assigned to 3 groups: group 1(30 patients) received oral isotretinoin, group 2 (30 patients) received acitretin and group 3 received oral placebo (15 patients). The treatment was given daily until complete clearance or for a maximum of 3 months.
RESULTS: Complete clearance of the treated lesions was observed in 18 patients (60%) of the isotretinoin group, in 22 patients (73.3%) of the acitretin group and in 0 patients (0%) of the placebo group. A statistically significant difference was observed in the therapeutic response between the treatment groups and the placebo group was observed. Adverse effects of the used drugs were mild and transient.
CONCLUSION: Oral isotretinoin and acitretin are promising effective modalities with minimal side effects for the treatment male patients with multiple recalcitrant common warts with a relative superiority of acitretin.
PMID:35726506 | DOI:10.1111/jocd.15173
