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.