A single-blinded randomized controlled study to assess the efficacy of twice daily application of sinecatechins 15% ointment when used sequentially with cryotherapy in the treatment of external genital warts.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy of sequential therapy of cryotherapy and sinecatechins 15% ointment BID versus cryotherapy alone in treatment of external genital warts (EGW). METHODS: Forty-two subjects with at least two EGW lesions underwent cryotherapy to all lesions. One week following cryotherapy, subjects were randomized 1:1 to receive either no additional treatment or treatment with sinecatechins 15% ointment BID up to 16 weeks or until complete clearance. The total number of visible baseline and new EGW were recorded at each visit. Subjects were followed for a total of 65 weeks post-treatment. RESULTS: There was a significant reduction in mean number of lesions from baseline after 16 weeks of treatment in the cryotherapy-sinecatechins ointment group compared to cryotherapy alone (-5.0 lesions vs -2.1 lesions respectively, P=0.07). CONCLUSION: Cryotherapy plus sinecatechins 15% ointment BID resulted in a significant improvement in the reduction of EGW compared to cryotherapy alone. Clinicaltrials.gov registration identifier: NCT02147353.

Isotretinoin updates.

Acne vulgaris is a chronic inflammatory disease of pilosebaceous follicles commonly affecting adolescents and young adults. This disease has a profound psychological impact on affected individuals and treatment has been shown to significantly improve both self-esteem and quality of life. Isotretinoin is an effective medication used primarily in severe cystic acne patients. Over the past 30 years, this medication has revolutionized the treatment of acne. However, despite its popularity there are numerous side effects associated with its use. Most of its side effects are predictable and dose dependent, which has led to the development of variable dose regimens. Unfortunately, rare but significant side effects (e.g., depression, inflammatory bowel disease) do occur and necessitate careful monitoring to improve clinical outcomes and minimize potential adverse events.