Publication:

Comparative efficacy of trichloroacetic acid combined with silver nitrate and cryotherapy in treating plantar warts study in Military Medical Specialty Center

Background Warts are benign growths that affect the skin and mucous membranes. Comparative studies evaluating the efficacy of trichloroacetic acid (TCA), silver nitrate, and cryotherapy for treating plantar warts reveals distinct advantages for each treatment modality. Objectives were to determine the comparative efficacy of TCA with silver nitrate and cryotherapy in treating planter warts.

Methods It was a descriptive, descriptive analytical and cross-sectional hospital-based study conducted at MMSC. Data were analyzed by statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) version 26.

Results Among the100 participants (82% male, 18% female). The age distribution showed that most participants were between 20-29 years (34%) and 30-39 years (33%). The duration of the disease was less than 3 months for (50%) participants, while (44%) had the disease for 3-6 months. Most participants were employed (89%), aged 20-39 years (67%), and had experienced plantar warts for less than six months (94%). Both groups achieved high rates of complete resolution (82% for TCA vs. 74% for cryotherapy), though the difference was not statistically significant. Recurrence was significantly lower in the TCA group (12%) compared to the cryotherapy group (38%). Treatment duration and side effects varied significantly between groups, with TCA showing shorter treatment durations and fewer side effects. Cryotherapy was associated with higher rates of moderate and severe side effects.

Conclusions The study demonstrates that TCA with silver nitrate is more effective and has a better safety profile than cryotherapy for the treatment of plantar warts. These findings support the recommendation of trichloroacetic acid with silver nitrate as a first-line treatment option, particularly for patients with a high risk of recurrence or those who may be sensitive to the side effects of cryotherapy. Further research with larger sample sizes and longer follow-up periods are recommended to confirm these results and assess long-term outcomes.