Korean J Dermatol.  2023 Feb;61(2):119-123.

Comparison of Sodium Thiosulfate Solution and a Mixture of Diflucortone Valerate and Isoconazole Nitrate for Pityriasis Versicolor

• Kim T
• Kim J
• Park J

Abstract

Background
Skin diseases associated with Malassezia species include malassezia folliculitis, pityriasis versicolor, and seborrheic dermatitis. Although several treatment options are available for the treatment of pityriasis versicolor, there is a lack of research data on sulfur preparation, which is a time-honored therapeutic agent; furthermore, data comparing topical antifungal agent and sulfur preparation is not available.
Objective
The purpose of this study was to compare the efficacy and usefulness of a mixture of diflucortone valerate 1 mg/g and isoconazole nitrate 10 mg/g ointment (Travocort) and sodium thiosulfate solution 25% for pityriasis versicolor.
Methods
A retrospective review was performed with 185 patients diagnosed with pityriasis versicolor who presented to the Department of Dermatology, Daegu Catholic University Medical Center between August 2002 and December 2021.
Results
Of the 185 patients, 82 used Travocort while 103 used sodium thiosulfate solution. The average duration of the treatment was 19.3 days for Travocort and 28.8 days for sodium thiosulfate solution (p=0.001). The success rate of the treatment after 2 weeks was 65.8% for Travocort and 56.3% for sodium thiosulfate solution. Side effects occurred in 12.1% and 4.8% of the patients in the Travocort and sodium thiosulfate solution group, respectively.
Conclusion
Travocort had a faster healing rate than sodium thiosulfate solution. However, topical antifungal agents can cause side effects like localized cutaneous reaction. Furthermore, the glucocorticoid portion in combination therapy may induce various side effects with long-term use. Therefore, considering the side effects of Travocort, sodium thiosulfate solution can be used as a safe alternative when long-term treatment is required.

Keyword

Pityriasis versicolor; Sulfur; Travocort