Emerging treatments

Cidofovir

Cidofovir is an acyclic nucleoside phosphonate currently used to treat cytomegalovirus retinitis in HIV patients. It has been shown to have activity against a large number of viruses, including herpes viruses and human papillomavirus.[64][65][66] One study reported complete resolution of warts in 93% of HIV-positive patients treated with surgery alone, 76% treated with cidofovir alone, and 100% of people treated with combination therapy.[59]​ The combination treatment group also had the lowest relapse rate (27%), compared with the single-treatment groups.[59]​ Studies have also shown topical cidofovir to be effective in treating refractory genital warts. Cidofovir has been compounded in bases for topical use, although topical formulations are prohibitively expensive. Although application site reactions are common and may be severe, no significant systemic side effects have been noted.[67] Ongoing studies are needed to confirm the initial reports regarding its therapeutic efficacy and lack of systemic side effects.

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