Publication:

Efficacy and safety of iontophoresis combined sodium salicylate in acquired plantar keratoderma-a randomized controlled study

Background Palmoplantar keratoderma is a heterogenous group of disorders, hereditary or acquired, characterized by thickening of palms and soles. Though it is not a life-threatening condition, it affects individual’s quality of life. As treatment of keratoderma has always been troublesome, upgraded treatment modalities which improves keratoderma efficiently are always encouraged.

Methods In this randomized controlled study, patients of plantar keratoderma of age group of 18-65 years were randomly divided in group A and group B. In group A, iontophoresis combined sodium salicylate was offered to patients twice weekly for 8 weeks of duration, during which DC current was supplied at 5-15 mA for 10 min of duration. Whereas, in group B patients applied topical salicylic acid 12% ointment at home twice a day for 8 weeks.

Results Our study of 70 patients of keratoderma, revealed diffuse (94%) pattern of involvement with female preponderance (55.7%) and occupation wise, most common among laborers (54.2%) followed by housewives (27.1%). Statistically significant number of patients showed reduction in severity grading of parameters, in both groups at end of 8 weeks. Same way, mean values of parameter grading significantly reduced at 8 weeks in both the groups. But intergroup values showed no significant difference. Mean EASI (Eczema Area Severity Index) score showed statistically significant reduction in group B as compared to group A at 8th week. Percentage of reduction of EASI score was also significantly higher in group B at end of treatment.

Conclusions Here both treatment modalities are safe and effective, topical being slightly more efficacious than iontophoresis. So, we can conclude that no additional privilege of drug delivery through iontophoresis.