The effect of table salt as a treatment of umbilical granuloma in neonates

Abstract

Introduction: Umbilical granuloma is a widespread problem that may cause anguish to the parents.

Patients and method: A randomized controlled study was conducted on 85 neonates aged 2-4 weeks (42 males and 43 females) with a diagnosis of umbilical granuloma. They were randomly divided into 2 groups; group A included 42 patients (20 males and 22 females), and group B included 43 patients (21 males and 22 females). Parents of group A patients were instructed to use a small amount of common salt on the granuloma after cleaning it, and to cover the salt by blaster for 30 minutes to keep it in place; after that, the blaster had to be removed, and the umbilicus was cleaned with sterile cotton and water to remove the salt. The procedure was repeated for 3 days straight. Group B was treated once by applying clean dry silver nitrate sticks (concentration of 20%) on the granuloma; contact with normal skin was avoided. The procedure was performed by the researcher himself at his clinic. Statistical analysis was done by using Fisher Exact test.

Results: In group A, 39 (92.9%) responded to treatment by salt, while 3 (7.1%) of them did not respond. In group B, 41 (95.3%) responded to treatment by silver nitrate, while 2 (4.7%) did not respond. There was no significant difference between the two groups, with p-value = 0.676.

Conclusion: Umbilical granuloma can be treated with topical application of common salt; such a method can be considered a valid alternative for its effectiveness, safety, and simplicity.