Topically applied griseofulvin in prevention and treatment of Trichophyton mentagrophytes

Griseofulvin is not considered effective in treatment of superficial fungal infections. However, when applied topically in organic solvents, the drug appeared in very high concentration in all levels of stratum corneum, and it generally persisted there in measurable amounts for four or more days after a single application. Based on this observation, double-blind experimental prophylactic and therapeutic studies were conducted. Topically applied griseofulvin in alcohol solution was highly effective in preventing experimentally induced Trichophyton mentagraphytes infection, but it had no therapeutic effect once the infection was initiated. Topically administered griseofulvin may prove useful in prevention of recurrences or as an adjunct to therapy in selected cases of superficial fungal infection.