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Cutaneous warts: an evidence-based approach to therapy
Rocky Bacelieri1, Sandra Marchese Johnson
1Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, Illinois, USA.
American Family Physician
|September 1, 2005
Summary
Topical salicylic acid and cryotherapy are effective treatments for common warts in children. For difficult cases, intralesional immunotherapy may be considered by physicians.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Pediatrics
- Virology
Background:
- Cutaneous warts are common in children and adolescents.
- Warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV).
- Treating warts presents a therapeutic challenge due to varied patient responses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review evidence-based therapies for cutaneous warts.
- To provide a guideline for physicians on wart treatment.
- To discuss the efficacy of different therapeutic approaches.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of existing studies on wart therapies.
- Analysis of evidence supporting common treatment modalities.
- Discussion of therapeutic options for physicians.
Main Results:
- At-home topical salicylic acid shows supporting evidence.
- Physician-administered cryotherapy is evidence-supported.
- Intralesional immunotherapy is a potential option for recalcitrant warts.
Conclusions:
- No single therapy guarantees complete remission for all patients.
- Salicylic acid and cryotherapy are recommended first-line treatments.
- Immunotherapy offers an alternative for persistent or extensive warts.