Pediatric Molluscum Contagiosum treatment in South Asia: Evaluating Cryotherapy against topical KOH
Molluscum Contagiosum treatment evaluating Cryotherapy against topical KOH
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.66344/jpad.v36i2.3357Keywords:
Molluscum contagiosum, Cryotherapy, Potassium hydroxide, Pediatric dermatologyAbstract
Background Molluscum contagiosum is a viral skin infection in children, often causing cosmetic concerns and requiring treatment because of its contagious nature. Various treatment modalities are available, but an ideal therapy should provide effective lesion clearance with minimal pain and adverse effects.
Objective To compare the effectiveness and safety of cryotherapy vs. 10% KOH solution in treatment of paediatric Molluscum contagiosum patients in a South Asian tertiary care centre.
Methods A total of 70 patients fulfilling the inclusion criteria were enrolled from OPD of dermatology department, Mayo Hospital. Participants were divided into two equal groups. Group A received cryotherapy every 15 days while group B applied 10% KOH solution, twice daily at home until clearance of lesions. Follow-up assessments were conducted at weeks 2, 4, 6, 8, 10 and 12. Treatment response was categorized as complete (100%), moderate (50-99%), or mild (1-49%) clearance of lesions.
Results All the patients completed the study. Complete response was achieved by the 3rd visit in group A and by 4th to 5th visit in group B. Mean cure time was significantly shorter in the cryotherapy group compared to the KOH group (56 vs. 84 days, P<.001). Pain was the most common adverse effect and was significantly more frequent in the cryotherapy group than in the KOH group (62.8% vs. 31.4%; P=.0004; 95% CI: 1.2-2.8). Hyperpigmentation and scarring were also observed more commonly with cryotherapy, although no serious adverse effects or treatment discontinuation occurred. The difference in treatment efficacy between the two groups was statistically significant during follow-up visits (P<.05).
Conclusion Topical 10% KOH solution is a better therapeutic option as compared to cryotherapy in the treatment of MC in terms of pain and regional side effects.
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