Utility of 30% hydrogen peroxide in the treatment of seborrheic keratosis

Abstract Background Hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2 ) has been used in medicine as an antiseptic, but at a higher concentration of 40%, it is used as a chemical cauterant for seborrheic keratoses (SKs). Its action and hence utility at 30% is unexplored. It can serve as a relatively inexpensive modality of treatment for SKs. Objectives To evaluate the efficacy and side effects of 30% H 2 O 2 as a chemical cauterant in SKs. Methods Seborrheic keratoses were treated with 30% H 2 O 2 methodically. Posttreatment assessment was done for the lesion thickness, patient satisfaction, and side effects like burning, itching, edema, crusting, vesiculation, erosion, ulceration, and pigmentary changes. Results Complete clearance was noted in 25 (49%) lesions, after a single session. Five (9%) lesions responded poorly. Patient satisfaction was excellent with 34 (66.7%) lesions. Side effects noted were burning, pruritus, erythema, edema, and crusting. However, none of them was severe. Dryness, vesiculation, and scarring were reported by none. Conclusions H 2 O 2 30% can be used as a chemical cauterant with minimal side effects.