The treatment of plantar warts with a keratolytic agent and occlusion

Abstract

In an open, multicentre study, patients with one to ten plantar warts on each foot were randomized prior to treatment for up to 17 weeks to receive either a keratolytic agent alone (Promicid gel) or the same agent covered by an occlusive plaster (Promicid occlusive dressing). A total of 170 patients completed the study. A statistical comparison of the two treatments showed that the use of a keratolytic agent and occlusion was significantly more effective than the use of the keratolytic agent alone. Treatment results were generally better for patients under the age of 14 years, and occlusion was particularly helpful for patients of 14 years of age or older. Both treatments were well tolerated. There were fewer sidesffects in the group treated with the keratolytic agent and occlusion.