Comparison of 2% deoxyarbutin and 4% hydroquinone as a depigmenting agent in healthy individuals: A double-blind randomized controlled clinical trial.

BACKGROUND: Hydroquinone, which is considered the gold standard skin depigmenting agent, has been associated with multiple side effects. Lately, deoxyarbutin has been suggested to be an alternative of hydroquinone with better safety profile. OBJECTIVE: To compare the depigmenting effect of 2% deoxyarbutin and 4% hydroquinone sera. METHODS: This double-blind randomized controlled study was done on the right and left arms of healthy participants. Subjects were instructed to apply either 2% deoxyarbutin or 4% hydroquinone serum on each arm, which were randomly labeled as group A and B, every day for 12 weeks. Chromameter and mexameter analysis were done every 2 weeks to assess the color change. Paired and independent t-tests were used to assess the color change within and between both groups, respectively. RESULTS: A total of 59 females participated in this study. Both groups showed significant improvement in skin depigmentation as shown by the chromameter (increase in L* value) and mexameter (decrease in melanin index) analysis at the end of the study (p < 0.05). No significant difference in both parameters was observed between both groups (p > 0.05). No side effects were reported in either groups. CONCLUSION: 2% deoxyarbutin and 4% hydroquinone sera showed comparable depigmenting efficacy.

A large verrucous plaque on the buttocks: a case report of an atypical presentation of tuberculosis verrucosa cutis.

Although the incidence of cutaneous tuberculosis (TB) has declined among all cases in dermatology outpatient settings, atypical cases are still being reported worldwide. These atypical forms can imitate other conditions hence delaying the diagnosis and increased morbidity. We report a case of an atypical presentation of extensive Tuberculosis Verrucosa Cutis (TVC) on the buttocks presenting as an annular hyperkeratotic plaque with central healing. Suspicious clinical manifestations and histopathological features followed by an excellent response with antituberculosis therapy confirmed the diagnosis of TVC. Recalcitrant chronic lesions even with adequate standard treatment should raise suspicion of cutaneous TB, especially in endemic areas.