10% Potassium hydroxide solution vs. cryotherapy in the treatment of molluscum contagiosum: a case-control study

ABSTRACT

Molluscum contagiosum [MC] is a common viral infection affecting children. A number of chemical and physical modalities are available for its treatment. To evaluate the efficacy and safety of cryotherapy versus 10% potassium hydroxide [KOH] solution in treating MC. 40 children with MC were divided into two groups. Cryotherapy [one freeze-thaw cycle] was done in group A [n=20] or 10% potassium hydroxide solution [KOH] was applied [group B, n=20] by the patient or a parent twice daily until 12 weeks. Patients were followed up at baseline, week 2, week 4, week 8, and week 12 for efficacy [defined as clearance of lesions] or side effects. By the end of study, 14 patients in group A [cryotherapy] and 17 patients in group B [KOH] were evaluable. All 14 [100%] patients in cryotherapy group and 16/17 [94.1%] in KOH group showed complete clearance of lesions. 100% patients in group A [cryotherapy] and 88.2% in group B [KOH] developed local side effects. However, these were mild and did not warrant discontinuation of treatment. 10% KOH solution is as effective as cryotherapy for the treatment of MC in children. However, KOH is relatively safe and more patient friendly therapy