A double-blind, randomized trial of local formic acid puncture technique in the treatment of common warts

Viral warts are a common problem especially in young people. They are an important topic as they are transmittable and cause social embarrassment. Though there are several treatments for viral warts, none offer a fast, simple, complete cure by itself. A simple and inexpensive way of treatment would be outstanding, especially in the developing countries. The authors' goal was to determine in patients with warts, the efficacy and safety of topical puncture with 85% formic acid in distilled water solution. A placebo-controlled, clinical trial was performed in patients with common viral warts who were referred to the Khorshid and Beheshti dermatology centers of Isfahan Medical School in 2003 and 2004. A total of 34 patients received 85% formic acid in distilled water solution on their lesion on one side of the body and distilled water as placebo on the other side of the body, every other day, using a needle puncture technique. Follow-up occurred every 2 weeks up to 3 months for all patients. Ninety-one percent of patients who received formic acid application showed complete disappearance of warts after follow-up period, compared to 10% in the placebo (distilled water) group. The results show that the application of 85% formic acid in distilled water solution is a safe and effective treatment for common warts with few side effects and good compliance.