Retrospective analysis of treatment of cutaneous warts with measles, mumps, and rubella immunotherapy over 8 years

Abstract

Introduction: Warts are benign lesions caused by human papilloma virus. Various types of cutaneous warts include verruca vulgaris, genital warts, and palmoplantar warts. Various therapeutic modalities are available for warts with varying response. These include destructive therapies, cytotoxic agents (Bleomycin), and immunotherapy (measles, mumps, and rubella [MMR], candida antigen, etc.). We have analyzed the efficacy of intralesional MMR immunotherapy in patients with different kinds of cutaneous warts. Aim: The purpose of this study was to retrospectively analyze the effectiveness and safety of MMR immunotherapy in the treatment of different kinds of cutaneous warts. Materials and Methods: We included all the patients with cutaneous warts receiving MMR vaccine between March 2014 and March 2022. Demographic data were recorded. MMR vaccine was given for four doses at 3 weeks interval or till there was complete clearance, whichever was earlier. Clearance and reduction of wart sizes and potential side effects were recorded. Results: A total of 184 patients were enrolled, and 45% patients were women. Predominant age group of patients was 21–40 years. Most common types of warts observed was palmoplantar warts. Complete resolution was seen in 66% patients and partial response in 22% patients. Palmo-plantar and warts on extremities responded completely to immunotherapy, whereas 43% of genital warts had no improvement. Pain at injection site was observed in all patients, and 32% patients had flu-like symptoms. Conclusions: Immunotherapy with MMR vaccine shows a promising response in the treatment of palmo-plantar warts and warts on extremities, without any serious adverse effect, whereas the genital warts and verruca plana respond variably to immunotherapy.