Griseofulvin and Whitfield’s ointment- time for their resurrection as part of multidrug therapy in management of recalcitrant dermatophyte infections?

Abstract

We are facing a resurgence of dermatophytic infections in epidemic proportions in India, and the newer anti fungals don’t seem to give the desired results in all patients. Is it time to go back to the older antifungals like Griseofulvin and Whitfield’s ointment? This article looks at the why’s and how’s of this dilemma. Author’s experience corroborating the use of Griseofulvin and Whitfield’s ointment as part of a multidrug regimen for glabrous tinea infections is also included.