Meta-analysis: Griseofulvin Efficacy in the Treatment of Tinea Capitis

Despite its long history in clinical use, reported efficacy rates of griseofulvin remain highly variable. A meta-analysis of clinical trials of griseofulvin use in tinea capitis was performed to determine mean griseofulvin efficacy. A review of the literature identified 7 studies. When all 7 studies were pooled, the overall mean effective cure (negative KOH and culture) of griseofulvin at 4 to 6 weeks posttreatment was 73.4%±7% (7 studies, n=438 patients). Higher efficacy rates appeared to be reported with the use of higher dosages of griseofulvin (>18 mg/kg/d). When broken down by species, the mean efficacy for Trichophyton and Microsporum were 67.6%±9% (5 studies, n=396) and 88.1%±5% (2 studies, n=42 patients), respectively. Based on these studies, griseofulvin efficacy has remained consistently high over the past decade. Both genera showed good efficacy with griseofulvin therapy given from 6 to 8 weeks. Griseofulvin remains an effective therapy for tinea capitis.