[Polyphenon E. A new topical therapy for condylomata acuminata].

Treatment of genital warts (condylomata acuminata) is still not completely satisfactory, despite the introduction of imiquimod 5% cream. With the development of Polyphenon E 15% ointment, progress has been made towards optimized, patient-friendly treatment of genital warts. Polyphenon E is a mixture of different polyphenols/catechins from green tea extracts (Camilla sinensis), which are known to have antioxidative, antiinflammatory, anti-proliferative and anticancer activities. In 3 placebo-controlled clinical studies safety and efficacy of Polyphenol E 15% ointment was studied in a total of 1400 patients with genital warts from Europe, North- and South America as well as South Africa. Complete responses with total healing of genital warts were seen in 54.9% of the patients in contrast to 35.4% of patients receiving placebo (p >0.001) (Combined study data). The recurrence rate was 6.2%. Polyphenon E offers special advantages with regard to its very good safety profile. Systemic adverse reactions are unlikely. Mild to moderate local reactions are of short duration. "Drug-holidays" are not necessary and the ointment does not have to be washed off. There is no contraindication for uncircumcised men with genital warts.