Safety and efficacy of topical nitric oxide‐releasing berdazimer gel for molluscum contagiosum clearance: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials

Abstract

AbstractMolluscum contagiosum (MC) is a contagious infection that, although benign, can become an aesthetic burden and lead to other opportunistic infections, secondary dermatitis, and self‐isolation. Currently, several treatment options are available for MC, including the newly investigated nitric oxide‐releasing berdazimer gel, leading this review to evaluate randomized controlled trials (RCT) comparing berdazimer gel with a vehicle for treating MC. The meta‐analysis included three reports and four RCT involving 1854 patients, with 1106 (59.6%) randomized to receive berdazimer. Our findings suggest that berdazimer is effective in the management of MC lesions, but the increased clearance of lesions and reduction of scarring must be weighed against the potential for topical adverse effects, particularly when considering the use of this therapy in pediatric patients.