Sanz-Motilva V, Martorell-Calatayud A, Gutiérrez García-Rodrigo C, Hueso-Gabriel L, García-Melgares ML, Pelufo-Enguix C, Alfaro-Rubio A, Vanaclocha-Sebastián F. The Usefulness of 0.2% Topical Nitroglycerin for Chondrodermatitis Nodularis Helicis.
ACTAS DERMO-SIFILIOGRAFICAS 2015;
106:555-61. [PMID:
26001657 DOI:
10.1016/j.ad.2015.04.004]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2015] [Revised: 04/03/2015] [Accepted: 04/13/2015] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE
Chondrodermatitis nodularis helicis (CNH) is a painful idiopathic degenerative condition involving the skin and cartilage of the helix or antihelix of the ear. Topical nitroglycerin 2% is a relatively recent treatment option for CNH that has produced good results, although with adverse effects (17% of cases). The use of a lower concentration would probably achieve similar results with fewer adverse effects. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of topical nitroglycerin 0.2% in the treatment of CNH.
MATERIAL AND METHODS
We performed a retrospective observational study of patients treated in 2 Spanish hospitals between 2012 and 2014. The effectiveness of treatment was determined by clinical photography and assessment of symptoms using a verbal numerical rating scale.
RESULTS
Of the 29 patients treated, 93% showed clinical improvement. In the group of responders, mean treatment duration was 1.8 months and mean follow-up was 5.9 months. Overall tolerance was good in all cases.
CONCLUSION
Topical nitroglycerin 0.2% is an effective and well-tolerated conservative treatment option that improves the appearance of lesions and provides symptomatic relief in the majority of patients with CNH.
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