monochloroacetic acid

Monochloroacetic acid (MCA) is a topical small molecule caustic and keratolytic agent used for the treatment of viral warts, including common (hand) warts and plantar warts. As a strong organic acid, it functions by chemically degrading the keratin and protein structures of the wart tissue, which is typically infected by the human papillomavirus (HPV). This action softens and destroys the lesion, facilitating the removal of the wart and encouraging the regeneration of healthy skin. Due to its high corrosivity and potential for systemic toxicity if absorbed in large quantities, MCA is generally administered in a clinical setting by healthcare professionals such as podiatrists or dermatologists. It is marketed under the brand name Acetocaustin and has been evaluated in clinical trials such as the WARTS-2 study, which compared its efficacy to cryotherapy and salicylic acid treatments in primary care settings.

Brand names

Acetocaustin

Other names

chloroacetic acid