The Safety and Efficacy of Intralesional Verapamil Versus Intralesional Triamcinolone Acetonide for Keloids and Hypertrophic Scars: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND Keloids and hypertrophic scars often result after skin trauma. Currently, intralesional triamcinolone acetonide (TAC) is the criterion standard in nonsurgical management of keloids and hypertrophic scars. Intralesional verapamil may be an effective alternative modality, but it has been insufficiently studied. Accordingly, the study authors conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials to compare the efficacy and safety of the two drugs. METHODS The study authors systematically searched the MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure databases for relevant trials published in any language through September 2018. RESULTS According to the four studies included in this review, TAC improved scar pliability and vascularity more than verapamil after 3 weeks (P .05). The difference in effects on symptoms was not statistically significant (P = .89). For pain and telangiectasia, no statistical difference was observed (P> .05). Verapamil resulted in fewer cases of skin atrophy (P
Source: Advances in Skin and Wound Care - Category: Dermatology Tags: ONLINE EXCLUSIVES Source Type: research