NCT07333170

Comparison of the Efficacy of Topical Luliconazole 2% Cream vs Topical Ketoconazole 1% Cream in the Treatment of Pityriasis Versicolor.

• Status: Not Yet Recruiting
• Phase: Phase 4
• Study type: Interventional
• Enrollment: 86 (estimated)
• Sponsor: PAEC General Hospital, Islamabad · Academic / Other
• Sex: All
• Age: 18 Years – 50 Years
• Healthy volunteers: Not accepted

Summary

Pityriasis versicolor is a common superficial fungal infection caused by Malassezia species, characterized by hypo- or hyper-pigmented scaly patches on the skin. Topical antifungal agents are the mainstay of treatment. Ketoconazole has been widely used; however, newer agents such as luliconazole may offer improved efficacy and shorter treatment duration. This randomized controlled study aims to compare the efficacy and safety of topical luliconazole versus topical ketoconazole in patients with pityriasis versicolor. Treatment response will be assessed clinically and mycologically to determine comparative outcomes.

Detailed description

Pityriasis versicolor is a superficial fungal infection caused by Malassezia species and is commonly treated with topical antifungal agents. Ketoconazole is a conventional treatment, while luliconazole is a newer topical antifungal with potent activity against fungal organisms. This randomized controlled trial is designed to compare the clinical and mycological efficacy, safety, and tolerability of topical luliconazole versus topical ketoconazole in patients diagnosed with pityriasis versicolor. Eligible participants will be randomly allocated into two treatment groups and followed for treatment response and adverse effects. The findings of this study may help determine a more effective topical treatment option for pityriasis versicolor.

Conditions

• Pityriasis Versicolor

Interventions

Type	Name	Description
DRUG	Luliconazole Cream 1%	Ketoconazole is relatively hydrophilic with limited skin retention, whereas luliconazole is highly lipophilic, resulting in superior stratum corneum penetration, higher keratin binding, and prolonged antifungal activity.
DRUG	Topical ketoconazole 2% cream	Ketoconazole is relatively hydrophilic with limited skin retention, whereas luliconazole is highly lipophilic, resulting in superior stratum corneum penetration, higher keratin binding, and prolonged antifungal activity.

Timeline

• Start date: 2026-02-01
• Primary completion: 2026-07-01
• Completion: 2026-11-01
• First posted: 2026-01-12
• Last updated: 2026-01-12