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

ABSTRACT

To compare the results of 5% KOH versus 10% KOH in treatment of molluscum contagiosum [MC]. 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 [=/< 90% clearance of lesions], partial remission [60-90% clearance of lesions] and insignificant improvement [<60% clearance of lesions]. 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. 10% KOH solution is more effective treatment option for molluscum contagiosurn than 5% KOH solution