[Treatment of actinic keratoses with birch bark extract: a pilot study]

J Dtsch Dermatol Ges. 2006 Feb;4(2):132-6. doi: 10.1111/j.1610-0387.2006.05906.x.
[Article in German]

Abstract

Background: Birch bark contains a variety of apoptosis-inducing and anti-inflammatory substances such as betulinic acid, betulin, oleanolic acid and lupeol. Therefore, birch bark extract may be effective in the treatment of actinic keratoses. To address this issue, a pilot study using a standardized birch bark ointment was performed.

Methods: Twenty-eight patients with actinic keratoses were enrolled in this prospective, non-randomized pilot study. Fourteen patients were treated with birch bark ointment only; fourteen patients received a combination therapy with cryotherapy and birch bark ointment. Treatment response was assessed clinically after two months.

Results: Clearing of more than 75 % of the lesions was seen in 79 % of the patients treated with birch bark ointment monotherapy. The response rate of the combined treatment modality was 93 %. Therapy with birch bark ointment was well tolerated.

Conclusion: In this pilot study, a standardized birch bark extract was effective in the treatment of actinic keratoses. This therapy is easy to perform and it has no side effects. Birch bark ointment may be a new therapeutic option for actinic keratoses.

Publication types

  • Controlled Clinical Trial
  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Betula*
  • Combined Modality Therapy
  • Cryotherapy
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Ointments
  • Photosensitivity Disorders / drug therapy*
  • Phytotherapy*
  • Pilot Projects
  • Plant Extracts / therapeutic use*
  • Prospective Studies

Substances

  • Ointments
  • Plant Extracts