Abstract
This study was conducted to confirm the effect of the ointment containing Solanum melongena peel extract in the treatment of palmar arsenical keratosis and to identify the compound responsible for the effect. In total, 30 patients with moderate to severe palmar arsenical keratosis were enrolled according to the inclusion criteria. Extract from S. melongena peel was obtained and a topical ointment was prepared from the extract and supplied at the field level at an interval of two weeks. Instruction was given to the patients about how to apply the ointment. Adherence and adverse effects of the treatment were monitored regularly through phone calls and during each visit. The mean (± SD) size of the keratotic nodules was 21.9 ± 10.0 mm2 before intervention and 6.6 ± 5.3 mm2 after intervention. The percentage of reduction was 69.8. Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, infrared spectroscopy, liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry and elemental analysis of the extract was done to identify the compound and solasodine, a steroidal alkaloid, was identified.
Highlights
About millions of Bangladeshi people are chronically exposed to high concentration of arsenic through contaminated drinking water and suffering from arsenic-related health hazards
The most common manifestation of arsenicosis is the development of keratosis in the palms and soles which affect the economic condition of the patients by reducing their working ability
The patients with moderate to severe palmar arsenical keratosis were treated with the ointment containing S. melongena peel extract and it was found to be effective in the reduction of the size of the keratotic nodules
Summary
About millions of Bangladeshi people are chronically exposed to high concentration of arsenic through contaminated drinking water and suffering from arsenic-related health hazards. The most common manifestation of arsenicosis is the development of keratosis in the palms and soles which affect the economic condition of the patients by reducing their working ability. It can create social problems and possesses a negative impact on patient’s mental health.[1] Because of illiteracy and lack of information, people living in the rural areas consider keratosis as a contagious disease. They tend to avoid direct contact with the affected person. The presence of keratosis in the palms of unmarried girls is of great concern for their parents.[2]
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