#D-106 AAD 2024 - August 2025

Laser Treatment for Recalcitrant Warts: Comparative Study

Dr. Rachel Kim, Dr. Steven Harris, Dr. Nicole Jackson, Dr. Matthew Clark
Therapeutic Area: Dermatology
Company: Merck
Study Type: Randomized Controlled Trial

Key Findings

Pulsed dye laser achieved 78% complete clearance vs 41% with cryotherapy. Fewer treatments required with laser.

Summary

Pulsed dye laser achieved 78% complete clearance vs 41% with cryotherapy. Fewer treatments required with laser.

Study Design

Randomized comparison of pulsed dye laser vs cryotherapy in 180 patients with resistant common warts.

Methods

Treatments every 3 weeks until clearance or maximum 6 sessions. Primary outcome: complete clearance at 6 months.

Results

Complete clearance: 78% laser vs 41% cryo (p<0.001). Mean sessions: 3.2 vs 4.8. Recurrence: 12% vs 31%.

Conclusions

Pulsed dye laser superior to cryotherapy for resistant warts with fewer treatments and lower recurrence rates.

Full Abstract

This study examined laser treatment for recalcitrant warts: comparative study in a comprehensive clinical investigation.