PHASE III Clinical Trial

Efficacy and Safety of 50% Akapulko Lotion Compared to 25% Sodium Thiosulfate among Patients with Tinea Versicolor;
A Double Blind Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial

( Lina de Dios-Torralba, M.D., Maria Beatrice T. Alora, M.D.,
Department of Dermatology, Santo Tomas University Hospital )

INTRODUCTION

Tinea versicolor is a superficial, chronically recurring fungal infection of the stratum corneum caused by the filamentous form of Pityrosporum orbiculare. Lesions are characterized as slightly scaly, with well delineated borders, irregularly shaped macules usually located on the trunk, neck and upper extremities. Color can vary from brown to red; hypopigmented patches may also be present. The prevalence rate of Tinea versicolor in the University of Santo Tomas Dermatology Clinic is approximately 5%.

Several forms of topical therapies exist; however, each has certain disadvantages. Akapulko, scientifically known as Cassia alata (L) or Herpetica alata (Ref), is a course, erect, branched shrub growing up to 3 meters in height. It is locally abundant throughout the Philippines particularly in low and medium altitudes. Chrysophanic acid has been isolated as one of the active components of Akapulko lotion. In a study done by Nelia Cortes-Maramba, M.D., results showed that there is a significant difference between Akapulko and sodium thiosulfate versus Placebo, in attaining a negative KOH mount and causing the disappearance of erythema and scaling. No severe adverse effects were noted.

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