Treatment of Nongenital Warts

Abstract

Topical salicylic acid, cryotherapy, and topical fluorouracil are effective for treating nongenital warts. (Strength of Recommendation [SOR]: A, based on a systematic review of randomized controlled trials [RCTs].) Fluorouracil is more expensive than salicylic acid and produces more adverse effects, such as pain and blisters. The combination of salicylic acid and cryotherapy may be better than either treatment alone, although salicylic acid may be more cost-effective than cryotherapy. Bleomycin and interferons should not be used to treat nongenital warts. (SOR: A, based on a meta-analysis.)