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Author:
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Marsal Mora, Josep Ramon; Cruz Esteve, María Inés; Teixidó Armengol, Conxita; Díez, Olga; Martínez, Mireia; Galindo Ortego, Gisela; Real, Jordi; Schoenenberger, Joan Antoni; Pera, Helena
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Notes:
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Background: Molluscum contagiosum is a non-severe pediatric viral infection. Because it is highly contagious and
current treatments have negative aesthetic and psychological effects, we want to test an alternative treatment in
the primary care setting, consisting of two different concentrations of potassium hydroxide solution.
Methods/design: The study design is a double-blind, randomized clinical trial, using three types of topical treatment.
The treatment consist of daily applications of potassium hydroxide (KOH) in aqueous solution at 10% and 15%
concentration, and a placebo administered in the control group. Four follow-up visits (at 15, 30, 45 and 60 days) are
planned to evaluate treatment effectiveness and patient tolerance.
The main outcome measure of the trial will be the healing rate, defined as lesion disappearance in the affected zones
after the topic application of the experimental treatment. Secondary measures will be the principal characteristics and
evolution of the affected zone (surface area, number of lesions, size and density of lesions), treatment tolerance
(hyperpigmentation, itching, burning, pain), recurrence rate and the natural evolution of lesions in the control group.
Discussion: KOH can potentially be an effective and safe treatment for MC in primary care, and can also reduce
referrals to dermatologists and hospital pediatric departments. In addition, KOH may be a valid and less expensive
alternative to current invasive treatments (surgical excision). |
