Comparison of 40% trichloroacetic acid and cryotherapy for the treatment of plantar warts: A single-blind, randomized clinical trial

Plantar warts can cause pain near the toes and the sole of the foot and may result in referral for treatment. This study was aimed at comparing 40% trichloroacetic acid (TCA) and cryotherapy (Cryo) for the treatment of plantar warts. This single-blind, randomized clinical trial was performed on 60 subjects presenting with plantar wart in Sabzevar, Iran in 2018. The first intervention group was treated with 40% TCA in four sessions within 4 weeks. The second intervention group was treated with Cryo using liquid nitrogen in four sessions within 8 weeks. The mean (SD) age of subjects was 20.16 +/- 5.96 years and 68.33% (n = 41) were male. Although the resolution rate of warts in the TCA 40% group was greater than the Cryo group, there was no statistical association found between the two groups by adjusting age, sex, and basal time (P = .648). Findings suggest that although 40% TCA was almost as effective as Cryo in the treatment of plantar warts, considering the lower adverse effects of TCA 40% group as compared to the Cryo group, it could be a proper alternative.