Effectiveness of modified Whitfield’s ointment with oral griseofulvin in the treatment of dermatophytosis poorly responsive to standard antifungal therapy: a randomized, double blind, within patient placebo control

Abstract

Background: Dermatophytosis is a superficial fungal infection found in hot and humid areas particularly in tropical regions and affects the keratinized regions of the body. It is usually treated with a combination of topical and systemic antifungal therapy as well as improved hygienic measures. Over the last few decades there has been an increase in the prevalence of dermatophyte infections which are poorly responding to standard antifungal therapy. Methods: Modified Whitfield’s ointment is a combination of 5%-5% Salicylic acid and Benzoic acid with an emulsifying ointment as a vehicle which has both a fungistatic and a keratolytic action. Oral Griseofulvin is a systemic antifungal agent which is a fungistatic agent. The combination of the above agents is synergistic. A randomized double blind, within-patient-placebo-controlled trial was designed for the treatment of dermatophytosis poorly responsive to standard antifungal therapy. Conclusions: This may shed light on the treatment of dermatophytosis poorly responsive to standard antifungal therapy. Trial Registration: This trial is registered with WHO trial registry number (Universal trial number): U111-1235-8791.