Dermatology Book

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Cantharidin

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  1. Mechanism
    1. Vesicant obtained from Blister beetle
  2. Indications
    1. Stubborn periungual warts
    2. May be useful in Molluscum Contagiosum in children
  3. Obtaining
    1. No longer available is U.S., but available in Canada
    2. Manufactured by Omniderm
      1. Phone: 1-888-458-0158
      2. Fax: 1-514-458-1477
  4. Preparations
    1. Cantharidin (Cantharone, Canthacur)
    2. Canthacur PS (w/ Podophyllin 5% + Salicylic Acid 30%)
      1. Reserve for Plantar Warts due to irritation
  5. Precautions
    1. Apply ONLY in office
    2. Avoid touching normal skin
  6. Application
    1. Allow liquid to dry over wart
    2. Then cover with occlusive tape (e.g. Blenderm)
    3. Remove tape after 24 hours
      1. Remove earlier for significant discomfort
    4. In 2-3 days remove Blister under Local Anesthesia
      1. Snip off near base OR Curette
      2. Benefits of removing Blister
        1. Prevents progression to ring wart
        2. Prevents recurrence
  7. Follow-up
    1. Consider repeat treatment weekly as tolerated

Cantharidin (C0006886)

Definition (MSH)A toxic compound, isolated from the Spanish fly or blistering beetle (Lytta (Cantharis) vesicatoria) and other insects. It is a potent and specific inhibitor of protein phosphatases 1 (PP1) and 2A (PP2A). This compound can produce severe skin inflammation, and is extremely toxic if ingested orally.
ConceptsOrganic Chemical (T109) , Pharmacologic Substance (T121) , Hazardous or Poisonous Substance (T131)
MSHD002193
EnglishCantharidin, CANTHARIDIN PREPARATION, Cantharidine
Spanishcantaridina
Parent ConceptsBenzofurans (C0005068), [DE500] KERATOLYTICS/CAUSTICS, TOPICAL (C0991604), Sclerosing Agents (C0036426)
SourcesMSH, NDFRT, RXNORM, SCTSPA, SNOMEDCT, VANDF
Derived from the NIH UMLS (Unified Medical Language System)



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