Comparative study of systemic interferon alfa-2a with oral isotretinoin and oral isotretinoin alone in the treatment of recurrent condylomata accuminata.

OBJECTIVES

We attempted to test the hypothesis that the combination of systemic interferon alfa-2a and oral isotretinoin is more effective than isotretinoin alone in the treatment of recurrent condylomata accuminata.

STUDY

DESIGN

Fifty seven women with recurrent condylomata accuminata were randomly assigned in two groups. Group A (n = 24) received isotretinoin alone (Roaccutan, Roche) 1 mg/kgr orally daily for 3 months or until a remission was achieved; Group B (n = 33) received Interferon alfa-2a (Roferon-A, Roche) 3 million units subcutaneously three times for 8 weeks plus isotretinoin 1 mg/Kg orally for 3 months or until a remission was achieved.

RESULTS

There was no statistically significance in remission rates between the two groups (18/24 vs 28/33, p > 0.1). However the duration of treatment was statistically significantly shorter in Group B (1.9 vs 2.5 months, p < 0.01). Side effects were minimal.