The Usefulness of 0.2% Topical Nitroglycerin for Chondrodermatitis Nodularis Helicis

Chondrodermatitis nodularis helicis (CNH) is a painful idiopathic degenerative condition involving the skin and cartilage of the helix or antihelix of the ear. Topical nitroglycerin 2% is a relatively recent treatment option for CNH that has produced good results, although with adverse effects (17% of cases). The use of a lower concentration would probably achieve similar results with fewer adverse effects. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of topical nitroglycerin 0.2% in the treatment of CNH.

We performed a retrospective observational study of patients treated in 2 Spanish hospitals between 2012 and 2014. The effectiveness of treatment was determined by clinical photography and assessment of symptoms using a verbal numerical rating scale.

Of the 29 patients treated, 93% showed clinical improvement. In the group of responders, mean treatment duration was 1.8 months and mean follow-up was 5.9 months. Overall tolerance was good in all cases.

Topical nitroglycerin 0.2% is an effective and well-tolerated conservative treatment option that improves the appearance of lesions and provides symptomatic relief in the majority of patients with CNH.