Topical Ivermectin and Microneedling for Cutaneous Non-genital Warts Treatment

Warts are harmless skin growths caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). They are quite common, with an estimated 7-12% of the global population having cutaneous warts at any given time. Current treatments for warts are often painful, may not work for everyone, and can have side effects like scarring or infection. This study focuses on exploring a new treatment option for non-genital cutaneous warts using topical Ivermectin, either alone or in combination with microneedling. Ivermectin, traditionally used as an anti-parasitic agent, has shown immune modulatory, anti-viral, and anti-proliferative effects. Its potential use as an anticancer therapy and its anti-proliferative and antiviral activity suggest it could be effective in treating HPV infections that cause warts. In this study, participants will use topical Ivermectin 1% either alone or combined with microneedling. Microneedling is a process that creates micro-injuries to initiate a localized inflammatory and wound-healing response, enhancing the immune system's ability to recognize and clear HPV-infected cells. It also improves drug penetration, making the treatment more effective. The study's primary outcome is to evaluate the efficacy of topical Ivermectin in treating cutaneous warts. This will be done through clinical assessment of warts at the baseline and each visit, comparing photographs at different time points.