Efficacy of topical Phenol and Menthol combination in chronic pruritic Mustard gas induced skin lesions

Abstract

<span>Background and aim: Chronic skin lesions are common late complications of sulfur mustard intoxication which would result in numerous complaints including pruritus, skin dryness and burn feeling. In chemical warfare injured veterans, pruritus is the most common complaint in chronic status with significant effects on patient's quality of life. This study has evaluated efficacy of topical phenol 1% and menthol 1% combination in treatment of pruritus in chemical warfare injured veterans in comparison with placebo.</span><br /><span>Materials and Methods: This randomized double blind clinical trial was done on chemical warfare injured veterans with mustard gas induced pruritus. Eighty patients were randomly divided to 2 equal groups, one group treated with phenol 1% and menthol 1% combination and other group with placebo for 6 weeks and the therapeutic effects were evaluated according to pruritus scores.</span><br /><span>Results: Pruritus score was significantly reduced in active group compared to placebo group (P=0.026).</span><br /><span>Conclusion: Phenol 1% and menthol 1% combination has significant therapeutic effect for mustard gas induced pruritus in chemical warfare injured veterans.</span>