Comparative study between topically applied irradiated human amniotic membrane in combination with tea tree oil

Radwan K Nashwa1, El Bedewi Ahmed2, Waleed A Nemr3

  • 1Dermatology Unit, Department of Health Radiation Research, National Center for Radiation Research and Technology (NCRRT), Egyptian Atomic Energy Authority (EAEA), P.O. Box 29, Nasr City, Cairo, Egypt. radwanashwa@yahoo.com.

Insights

Tea tree oil-saturated human amniotic membrane (TOSHAM) offers a superior, novel treatment for pityriasis versicolor (PV) skin lesions. This alternative therapy effectively combats Malassezia yeast with fewer applications than traditional treatments.

Area of Science:

  • Dermatology
  • Mycology
  • Regenerative Medicine

Background:

  • Pityriasis versicolor (PV) is a chronic skin condition caused by Malassezia yeast.
  • Tioconazole is a conventional topical antifungal treatment for PV.
  • Human amniotic membrane (HAM) possesses antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties beneficial for skin healing.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate tea tree oil-saturated HAM (TOSHAM) as an alternative therapeutic treatment for PV.
  • To compare the efficacy of TOSHAM with Tioconazole in treating PV lesions.
  • To assess the antifungal activity of TOSHAM against Malassezia furfur.

Main Methods:

  • A clinical trial involving 120 patients with PV lesions.
  • Weekly application of TOSHAM versus daily application of 1% Tioconazole cream.
  • In vitro microbiological evaluation of TOSHAM and Tioconazole against Malassezia furfur.

Main Results:

  • TOSHAM demonstrated superior clinical efficacy in healing PV lesions compared to Tioconazole.
  • Microbiological findings supported the superior antifungal activity of TOSHAM.
  • The novel TOSHAM treatment showed promising outcomes for PV management.

Conclusions:

  • TOSHAM presents a novel and effective therapeutic option for pityriasis versicolor.
  • The combination of HAM and TTO offers enhanced antifungal and healing properties.
  • TOSHAM provides a potentially advantageous treatment regimen with reduced application frequency.