A Comparative Study of Oral Single Dose of Fluconazole VS Topical Clotrimazole in Patients with Pityriasis Versicolor

Even though there are different treatments for patients with pityriasis versicolor, there are not enough information about using new topical systemic treatments. In this study, the effect of clotrimazole VS topical fluconazole in treating patients with pityriasis was investigated. A double blind randomized controlled trial was designed in dermatologic clinic of 5th Azar hospital Gorgan North of Iran, from April 2006 to May 2007. 120 patients were randomly divided into two groups: In the first group (G1), patients underwent treatment with single - dose of fluconazole capsule (400mg) and placebo cream. In the second group (G2), patients underwent treatment with clotrimazole cream (twice daily) and placebo capsule. The course of treatment was 2 weeks. All subjects were re-evaluated 2, 4 and 12 weeks after the end of the therapeutic course. In group one there were 50 patients and in group two 55. After 2 weeks, the rate of complete resolution of disease was significantly higher in G2 group than G1 (49.1% vs. 30%). After 4 weeks, 41 patients (81.2%) of G1 and 52 patients (94.9%) of G2 showed complete resolution. After 12 weeks 46 patients (92%) in G1 group and 45 patients (81.8%) in G2 group showed complete resolution. Recurrence rate in G1 and G2 groups were 6% and 18.2%, respectively. No complications were seen in the two groups. In this study, clinical response at 4th week, in clotrimazole group was greater than fluconazole group. Recurrence at 12th week after treatment with oral fluconazole was less than clotrimazole cream.