Safety and Efficacy of Hydrogen Peroxide Topical Solution, 40% (w/w), in Patients with Seborrheic Keratosis: A Follow up Study

Abstract

Introduction: Seborrheic keratosis are common benign epidermal tumors developing after middle-age. Approved topical treatments for seborrheic keratosis (SKs) are an unmet need. Objective: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of 40% hydrogen peroxide topical solution (HP40) versus vehicle for the treat ment of SKs. Methodology: A total of 50 patients with at least 2 SKs were selected and one lesion on each patient was treated with HP40 and the other with vehicle. Follow up was done at 3, 7 and 15 weeks. At each visit, SKs were graded using the Physician’s Le sion Assessment (PLA) scale (0=clear; 1= nearly clear; 2=<1 mm thick; and 3=>1 mm thick). Solution was applied at first visit and at 3 weeks if PLA score was higher than 0. Results: At 15 weeks, significantly more patients treated with HP40 than with vehicle achieved a PLA score of 0 (42% versus 0). Mean PLA score at 15 weeks was 0.82±0.87 in HP40 group and 2.96±0.2 in control group (p<0.001). Local skin reaction was only mild burning sensation and resolved within few days. Conclusion: Application of HP40 was well tolerated and effective in the removal of SKs.