An overview of role of retinoids in management of warts: Review article

Abstract

Background: Human papillomavirus (HPV)-inducing HPV-types can cause a wide range of cutaneous wart morphology and histological patterns that are distinct from one another. Certain forms of warts are more commonly related with various HPVs that cause cutaneous warts. It is essential that treatments for different forms of warts are both safe and painless. As warts can resolve up to two-thirds of the time without treatment, and treatments should not increase morbidity, this is particularly significant. In contrast, a large number of warts do not self-resolve fast and are associated with diminished quality of life, embarrassment, and pain in the skin. In terms of structure and function, retinoids resemble vitamin A in many ways. Both the differentiation and proliferation of keratinocytes and the immune system are hampered by their immunomodulatory effects. Objective: Assessment of role of retinoids in management of warts.
Conclusion: Oral retinoids such as isotretinoin and acitretin are safe and reported to be effective therapy for different types of warts