The Efficacy of Diphenylcyclopropenone in Treatment of Molluscum Contagiosum.

Background: Diphenylcyclopropenone (DPCP) contact immunotherapy has been successfully utilized in various forms for treatments of recalcitrant and facial warts, molluscum contagiosum (MC) and alopecia areata. The objective was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of DPCP in the treatment of MC. Methods: Twenty-four patients with MC were assigned to two groups: twelve patients (group A) were treated with topical application of DPCP one session per week for a maximum of 12 sessions or until clinical cure. Also, twelve patients (group B) were subjected to topical application of normal neutral saline as a control group. Follow-up was done for 3 months. Results: In group A, eight patients (66.7%) showed complete response while four patients (33.3%) showed partial response to the topical application of DPCP after seven to twelve sessions. However, in group B, eleven patients (91.7%) showed no response and (8.3%) showed partial response. A highly significant difference was found in the clinical response between both groups (p<0.05). Adverse effects were minimal and well tolerated in both groups. Conclusion: Diphenylcyclopropenone is safe and effective therapeutic option in treatment of MC and cost effective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]