Comparison of 5% potassium hydroxide with 10% potassium hydroxide solution in treatment of molluscum contagiosum: A comparative study

Authors

  • Farhana Muzaffar Department of Pediatric Dermatology, The Institute of Child Health / The Children’s Hospital, Lahore
  • Farzana Faiz Department of Pediatric Dermatology, The Institute of Child Health / The Children’s Hospital, Lahore

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.66344/jpad.v24i4.223

Keywords:

Molluscum contagiosum, potassium hydroxide, efficacy, safety

Abstract

Objective To compare the results of 5% KOH versus 10% KOH in treatment of molluscum contagiosum (MC).

 

Methods 40 children having MC were divided into 2 groups. 5% KOH solution or 10% KOH solution was applied by the patient or a parent on lesions once daily for two weeks or till the appearance of inflammatory signs. Patients were followed up 2, 4, 8 and 12 weeks for efficacy and side effect. Efficacy was categorized as complete remission (³ 90% clearance of lesions), partial remission (60-90% clearance of lesions) and insignificant improvement (<60% clearance of lesions).

 

Results By the end of study 16 patients in group A (5% KOH) and 17 patients in group B (10% KOH) were evaluable. Partial remission was seen in 4 (25%) in group A while in group B, 7 (41.2%) patients showed complete remission and 10 (58.8%) partial remission. 100% patients in group B showed local side effect in group A and 52.3% developed local side effect in group B. The side effects were mild and did not require discontinuation of treatment.

 

Conclusion 10% KOH solution is more effective treatment option for molluscum contagiosum than 5% KOH solution.

References

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Published

02.12.2016

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Original Articles

How to Cite

1.
Comparison of 5% potassium hydroxide with 10% potassium hydroxide solution in treatment of molluscum contagiosum: A comparative study. J Pak Assoc Dermatol [Internet]. 2016 Dec. 2 [cited 2026 Aug. 6];24(4):337-41. Available from: https://www.jpad.com.pk/index.php/jpad/article/view/223