The comparative effectiveness of the homeopathic medicine Bacillinum for ringworm (tinea): A pilot feasibility study

Introduction: Tinea (ringworm) is a highly infectious and commonly presenting pediatric condition. Standard care in rural Kenya is costly, associated with side effects, becoming less effective, and not always available. The aim of this study was to explore the feasibility of testing and using the homeopathic medicine Bacillinum for tinea. Methods: Children were recruited from two rural schools in Kenya. Inclusion criteria were: a clinical diagnosis of tinea and a positive Potassium Hydroxide (KOH) smear test. Children were alternately allocated to receive 28- day courses of standard treatment, or Bacillinum 12C. Outcomes measured were KOH smear test status, and tinea status according to Clinician Assessment Questionnaire (CAQ) completed by the child and the clinician. Tests were performed at baseline, 1, 2, and 6 months. Results: 110 children received clinical diagnoses of tinea, of whom 50 had negative KOH tests, one no show, and 10 were outside the age range. 49 were allocated alternately to standard treatment or Bacillinum. At 56 days, 64% receiving standard treatment and 56% receiving Bacillinum had negative KOH tests. At 6 months, 36% receiving standard treatment and 63% receiving Bacillinum had negative KOH tests. Flexibility was required to accommodate school timetable changes and carers living far away. The KOH smear test and clinical diagnosis frequently disagreed. Conclusion: Bacillinum is a low cost, easily administered intervention which may potentially improve long-term tinea status and reduce relapse incidence. Given tinea prevalence and problems with standard treatment, a randomised controlled trial is warranted. Long-term effects and tinea re-occurrence should be measured. National Commission for Science, Technology and Innovation (NACOSTI) registration number NACOSTI/P/19/ 78,810/26,078.