A large case series on the use of diphencyprone immunotherapy in the clearance of palmoplantar warts

Abstract

Abstract Background Palmoplantar viral warts are common, often affecting the quality of life of patients and present a major therapeutic challenge. Immunotherapy using diphencyprone (DCP) can be beneficial especially if first-line treatments fail. Aim To determine the effectiveness of DCP in clearing viral warts, and to provide detail on the number of treatments required and any adverse effects (AEs). Methods This was a retrospective case series of 124 patients who had received DCP treatment in a UK private practice setting from 1991 to 2008, carried out by a dermatologist experienced in the procedure. All patients had been referred by other clinicians after failure of standard treatments. The study data were extracted from clinical records, with follow-up until wart clearance or treatment discontinuation. Results There was an equal distribution in sexes (63 females, 61 males), with 37% of patients having warts present for greater than 5 years. The majority (93%) of patients had already tried cryotherapy, which was unsuccessful in clearing warts completely in all cases. Following DCP treatment, 77% of patients achieved full eradication of their warts, including three patients who were immunosuppressed. The mean number of DCP treatments required to achieve full clearance was 4·7, and the mean concentration of DCP required was 4%. Only 12% of patients experienced AEs, which were mild, and included urticaria and blistering. Conclusion We suggest that DCP immunotherapy is a safe and effective treatment for eradicating viral warts, especially in recalcitrant cases.