Line-field confocal optical coherence tomography in dermato-oncology: A literature review towards harmonized histopathology-integrated terminology.

Non-invasive diagnostics like line-field confocal optical coherence tomography (LC-OCT) are being implemented in dermato-oncology. However, unification of terminology in LC-OCT is lacking. By reviewing the LC-OCT literature in the field of dermato-oncology, this study aimed to develop a unified terminological glossary integrated with traditional histopathology. A PRISMA-guided literature-search was conducted for English-language publications on LC-OCT of actinic keratosis (AK), keratinocyte carcinoma (KC), and malignant melanoma (MM). Study characteristics and terminology were compiled. To harmonize LC-OCT terminology and integrate with histopathology, synonymous terms for image features of AK, KC, and MM were merged by two authors, organized by skin layer and lesion-type. A subset of key LC-OCT image-markers with histopathological correlates that in combination were typical of AK, squamous cell carcinoma in situ (SCCis), invasive squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), basal cell carcinoma (BCC), and MM in traditional histopathology, were selected from the glossary by an experienced dermatopathologist. Seventeen observational studies of AK (7 studies), KC (13 studies), MM (7 studies) utilizing LC-OCT were included, with 117 terms describing either AK, KC, or MM. These were merged to produce 45 merged-terms (61.5% reduction); 5 assigned to the stratum corneum (SC), 23 to the viable epidermis, 2 to dermo-epidermal junction (DEJ) and 15 to the dermis. For each lesion, mandatory key image-markers were a well-defined DEJ and presence of mild/moderate but not severe epidermal dysplasia for AK, severe epidermal dysplasia and well-defined DEJ for SCCis, interrupted DEJ and/or dermal broad infiltrative strands for invasive SCC, dermal lobules connected and/or unconnected to the epidermis for BCC, as well as single atypical melanocytes and/or nest of atypical melanocytes in the epidermis or dermis for MM. This review compiles evidence on LC-OCT in dermato-oncology, providing a harmonized histopathology-integrated terminology and key image-markers for each lesion. Further evaluation is required to determine the clinical value of these findings.

Dynamic optical coherence tomography unveils subclinical, vascular differences across actinic keratosis grades I-III.

Actinic keratosis (AK) classification relies on clinical characteristics limited to the skin's surface. Incorporating sub-surface evaluation may improve the link between clinical classification and the underlying pathology. We aimed to apply dynamic optical coherence tomography (D-OCT) to characterize microvessels in AK I-III and photodamaged (PD) skin, thereby exploring its utility in enhancing clinical and dermatoscopic AK evaluation. This explorative study assessed AK I-III and PD on face or scalp. AK were graded according to the Olsen scheme before assessment with dermatoscopy and D-OCT. On D-OCT, vessel shapes, -pattern and -direction were qualitatively evaluated at predefined depths, while density and diameter were quantified. D-OCT's ability to differentiate between AK grades was compared with dermatoscopy. Forty-seven patients with AK I-III (n = 207) and PD (n = 87) were included. Qualitative D-OCT evaluation revealed vascular differences between AK grades and PD, particularly at a depth of 300 µm. The arrangement of vessel shapes around follicles differentiated AK II from PD (OR = 4.75, p < 0.001). Vessel patterns varied among AK grades and PD, showing structured patterns in AK I and PD, non-specific in AK II (OR = 2.16,p = 0.03) and mottled in AK III (OR = 29.94, p < 0.001). Vessel direction changed in AK II-III, with central vessel accentuation and radiating vessels appearing most frequently in AK III. Quantified vessel density was higher in AK I-II than PD (p ≤ 0.025), whereas diameter remained constant. D-OCT combined with dermatoscopy enabled precise differentiation of AK III versus AK I (AUC = 0.908) and II (AUC = 0.833). The qualitative and quantitative evaluation of vessels on D-OCT consistently showed increased vascularization and vessel disorganization in AK lesions of higher grades.

Impact of skin hydration on patterns of microthermal injury produced by fractional CO2 laser.

OBJECTIVES: The impact of skin hydration on patterns of thermal injury produced by ablative fractional lasers (AFLs) is insufficiently examined under standardized conditions. Using skin with three different hydration levels, this study assessed the effect of hydration status on microchannel dimensions generated by a fractional CO2 laser. METHODS: A hydration model (hyperhydrated-, dehydrated- and control) was established in ex vivo porcine skin, validated by changes in surface conductance and sample mass. After, samples underwent AFL exposure using a CO2 laser (10,600 nm) at two examined pulse energies (10 and 30 mJ/mb, fixed 10% density, six repetitions per group). Histological assessment of distinct microchannels (n = 60) determined three standardized endpoints in H&E sections: (1) depth of microthermal treatment zones (MTZs), (2) depth of microscopic ablation zones (MAZs), and (3) coagulation zone (CZ) thickness. As a supplemental in vivo assessment, the same laser settings were applied to hyperhydrated- (7-h occlusion) and normohydrated forearm skin (no pretreatment) of a human volunteer. Blinded measurement of MAZ depth (n = 30) was performed using noninvasive optical coherence tomography (OCT). RESULTS: Modest differences in microchannel dimensions were shown between hyperhydrated, dehydrated and control skin at both high and low pulse energy. Compared to controls, hyperhydration led to median reductions in MTZ and MAZ depth ranging from 5% to 8% (control vs. hyperhydrated at 30 mJ/mb; 848 vs. 797 µm (p < 0.003) (MAZ); 928 vs. 856 µm (p < 0.003) (MTZ)), while 14%-16% reductions were shown in dehydrated skin (control vs. dehydrated at 30 mJ/mb; MAZ: 848 vs. 727 µm (p < 0.003); MTZ: 928 vs. 782 µm (p < 0.003)). The impact of skin hydration on CZ thickness was in contrast limited. Corresponding with ex vivo findings, hyperhydration was similarly associated with lower ablative depth in vivo skin. Thus, median MAZ depth in hydrated skin was 10% and 14% lower than in control areas at 10 and 30 mJ/mb pulse energy, respectively (10 mJ: 210 vs. 180 µm (p < 0.001); 30 mJ: 335 vs. 300 µm (p < 0.001)). CONCLUSION: Skin hydration status can exert a minimal impact on patterns of microthermal injury produced by fractional CO2 lasers, although the clinical implication in the context of laser therapy requires further study.

Skin Cancer Development Is Strongly Associated with Actinic Keratosis in Solid Organ Transplant Recipients: A Danish Cohort Study.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Solid organ transplant recipients (SOTRs) are at increased risk of skin cancer and suffer from greater disease-specific morbidity and mortality. To risk stratify the expanding SOTR population for more targeted skin cancer screening, a detailed understanding of risk factors is needed. Using combined clinical and pathological data to capture prevalence of actinic keratosis (AK) and skin cancer, this study aimed to identify risk factors of skin cancer development in a Danish SOTR cohort. METHODS: The trial comprised a retrospective cohort study of patients attending organ transplant clinics at the dermatological departments of Bispebjerg and Gentofte Hospitals in Copenhagen, Denmark, between 2009 and 2021. In addition to pathology records, AK prevalence was determined by review of electronic medical records (EMRs) of SOTR visits which specifically included descriptions of clinical AK. Prevalence of skin cancer, here defined as basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) (invasive or in situ), or melanoma (invasive or in situ), was determined by EMR and pathology code review. Additional data extracted from EMRs included age, sex, Fitzpatrick skin type, transplantation date and type, and immunosuppressive therapy. The effect of risk factors on skin cancer was calculated by Cox proportional hazards regression. RESULTS: A total of 822 SOTRs were included with a mean follow-up duration of 10.8 years (SD 2.4 years). A skin dysplasia diagnosis was identified in 30% (n = 250) of the population, consisting of either AK (22%; n = 177), skin cancer (23%; n = 186) or both (14%; n = 113). An AK diagnosis predicted both SCC (odds ratio [OR]: 31.5 [95% CI: 9.8-100.6], p < 0.0001) and BCC development (OR: 2.3 [95% CI: 1.6-3.3], p < 0.0001), with AKs diagnosed an average 3.1 years before the first SCC (p < 0.0001). Correspondingly, while the risk of SCC in SOTRs without AK was 1.4% 25 years after transplantation, SOTRs with AKs had a 23% SCC risk only 10 years posttransplant. Other identified risk factors included Fitzpatrick skin type I (BCC: OR: 2.4 [95% CI: 1.2-5.0], p = 0.018; SCC: 3.2 [95% CI: 1.2-8.2], p = 0.016) and transplantation duration >15 years (BCC: OR: 1.8 [95% CI: 1.2-2.7], p = 0.007). No significant association between skin cancer development and sex or immunosuppressive regimen was shown. CONCLUSION: Keratinocyte carcinoma is strongly associated with an AK diagnosis in SOTRS and should prompt intensified skin cancer screening in affected individuals.

Assessing Light and Energy-Based Therapy by Optical Coherence Tomography and Reflectance Confocal Microscopy: A Randomized Trial of Photoaged Skin.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Image-guided quantitative and semi-quantitative assessment of skin can potentially evaluate treatment efficacy. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) and reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) are ideal for this purpose. This study assessed clinically relevant statistical changes in RCM and OCT features in photoaged skin after light and energy-based therapy. METHODS: Novel statistical analyses were performed using OCT and RCM data collected during a previously published trial: a 12-week study of female décolleté skin randomized to four areas treated with thulium laser (L), photodynamic therapy (PDT), combined L-PDT, and control. Eight semi-quantitative RCM scores of photodamage and OCT measurements of skin roughness, blood flow, and epidermal thickness (ET) were evaluated and compared to dermoscopy and clinical skin scores. In statistical analysis, estimated treatment difference (ETD) was calculated. RESULTS: Twelve women with moderate to severe photodamage were included. RCM and OCT data demonstrated a trend towards rejuvenation of epidermis with increased ET, changes in skin surface, and improved honeycomb pattern in RCM. In angiographic OCT, non-significant changes towards more regular capillary meshes were shown, which matched a decline in appearance of gross telangiectasias in dermoscopy. Improved skin tone after laser and L-PDT was identified in RCM, showing less edged papillae in 36% and 45%, and lentigo number declined in 55% of patients after treatments in dermoscopy. Based on clinical scores, L-PDT provided the greatest clinical improvement, which corresponded to superior ETD outcomes in ET and edged papillae shown in OCT and RCM, respectively. CONCLUSION: Objective OCT and RCM assessment of skin rejuvenation was demonstrated in this study. Importantly, image-based improvements corresponded to favorable clinical skin scores and fewer photoaging characteristics in dermoscopy. Importantly, most changes did not reach statistical significance, prompting further studies and emphasizing the modest value of non-randomized, non-blinded anti-aging trials.

Efficacy and safety of laser-assisted combination chemotherapy: A follow-up study of treatment with 5-fluorouracil and cisplatin for basal cell carcinoma.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: There is a growing need for effective topical treatments for basal cell carcinoma (BCC). By altering the skin barrier, ablative fractional lasers (AFLs) enhance cutaneous uptake of the synergistic chemotherapeutic agents, cisplatin, and 5-fluorouracil (5-FU). In our recently reported clinical trial, AFL-assisted delivery of cisplatin and 5-FU showed favorable short-term clearance rates of 95% with good cosmetic results at 3 months. This follow-up study assessed sustained tumor clearance, safety, and cosmesis in the same patient cohort, observed 6- and 12-months posttreatment. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This follow-up study assessed AFL-assisted cisplatin and 5-FU in low-risk BCC. Among the 18/19 patients who achieved clinical tumor clearance in our 3-months primary trial, all were included for a 6-months follow-up. At 12 months, 17/19 were included due to one 6-month residual. During follow-up visits, treated areas were evaluated for signs of recurrent tumour by clinical inspection and optical coherence tomography (OCT). Residual tumors were confirmed histologically. Cosmetic outcome was evaluated at both follow-up visits by patients and physicians. RESULTS: Overall, complete tumor clearance was 89% (17/19) and 79% (15/19) at 6 and 12 months, respectively. Clearance rate for superficial BCCs (sBCCs) 1 year after treatment was 100% (6/6) and lower for nodular BCC (nBCC) at 69% (9/13). Among recurrent tumors, 67% (2/3) had received only a single treatment and all were of the nodular subtype, situated in the head and neck area. All histologically confirmed BCC recurrences were identified by OCT. Cosmetic outcomes were similarly rated "good" or "excellent" by patients and evaluators (p = 0.289 and p = 0.250). Treatment-related local skin reactions were mild and tolerable, consisting of persisting erythema in two patients at the end of the study. Dyspigmentation was commonly observed at both follow-up visits, while the appearance of scarring resolved in the majority of patients between 6 months (56%; 10/18) and 12 months (76%; 13/17). CONCLUSION: AFL-assisted cisplatin + 5-FU in double sessions represents an acceptable and safe treatment strategy for low-risk sBCC, while clearance rates following single treatment or for nBCC seem inferior. This intensified topical strategy may be best suited to cases of multiple lesions or in instances where surgical excision or extended courses of at-home therapy is challenging.

Local vasoregulative interventions impact drug concentrations in the skin after topical laser-assisted delivery.

INTRODUCTION: The ability of ablative fractional lasers (AFL) to enhance topical drug uptake is well established. After AFL delivery, however, drug clearance by local vasculature is poorly understood. Modifications in vascular clearance may enhance AFL-assisted drug concentrations and prolong drug dwell time in the skin. Aiming to assess the role and modifiability of vascular clearance after AFL-assisted delivery, this study examined the impact of vasoregulative interventions on AFL-assisted 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) concentrations in in vivo skin. METHODS: 5-FU uptake was assessed in intact and AFL-exposed skin in a live pig model. After fractional CO2 laser exposure (15 mJ/microbeam, 5% density), vasoregulative intervention using topical brimonidine cream, epinephrine solution, or pulsed dye laser (PDL) was performed in designated treatment areas, followed by a single 5% 5-FU cream application. At 0, 1, 4, 48, and 72 h, 5-FU concentrations were measured in 500 and 1500 µm skin layers by mass spectrometry (n = 6). A supplemental assessment of blood flow following AFL ± vasoregulation was performed using optical coherence tomography (OCT) in a human volunteer. RESULTS: Compared to intact skin, AFL facilitated a prompt peak in 5-FU delivery that remained elevated up to 4 hours (1500 µm: 1.5 vs. 31.8 ng/ml [1 hour, p = 0.002]; 5.3 vs. 14.5 ng/ml [4 hours, p = 0.039]). However, AFL's impact was transient, with 5-FU concentrations comparable to intact skin at later time points. Overall, vasoregulative intervention with brimonidine or PDL led to significantly higher peak 5-FU concentrations, prolonging the drug's dwell time in the skin versus AFL delivery alone. As such, brimonidine and PDL led to twofold higher 5-FU concentrations than AFL alone in both skin layers by 1 hour (e.g., 500 µm: 107 ng/ml [brimonidine]; 96.9 ng/ml [PDL], 46.6 ng/ml [AFL alone], p ≤ 0.024), and remained significantly elevated at 4 hours (p ≤ 0.024). A similar pattern was observed for epinephrine, although trends remained nonsignificant (p ≥ 0.09). Prolonged 5-FU delivery was provided by PDL, resulting in sustained drug deposition compared to AFL alone at both 48 and 72 hours in the superficial skin layer (p ≤ 0.024). Supporting drug delivery findings, OCT revealed that increases in local blood flow after AFL were mitigated in test areas also exposed to PDL, brimonidine, or epinephrine, with PDL providing the greatest, sustained reduction in flow over 48 hours. CONCLUSION: Vasoregulative intervention in conjunction with AFL-assisted delivery enhances and prolongs 5-FU deposition in in vivo skin.

Efficacy and Safety of Laser-Assisted Combination Chemotherapy: An Explorative Imaging-Guided Treatment With 5-Fluorouracil and Cisplatin for Basal Cell Carcinoma.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Rising incidences of basal cell carcinoma (BCC) have increased the need for effective topical therapies. By enhancing cutaneous uptake of the chemotherapeutic agents, cisplatin and 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), laser-assisted delivery may provide a new combination treatment for BCC. Accordingly, this study aimed to evaluate tumor response, safety, and drug biodistribution in tumors and blood after topical laser-assisted 5-FU + CIS treatment in BCC patients. STUDY DESIGN/MATERIALS AND METHODS: This open-label, proof-of-concept trial investigated laser-assisted combination cisplatin + 5-FU treatment in 20 patients with histologically verified, low-risk superficial or nodular BCCs on the face (<20 mm) or trunk/extremities (<50 mm). After tumor demarcation guided by optical coherence tomography (OCT), BCCs were exposed to ablative fractional CO2 laser followed by 60 minutes topical cisplatin solution and 7-day exposure to 5% 5-FU cream under occlusion. After 30 days, treatment was repeated if any tumor residual was identified. Tumor response at day 30 and month 3 was assessed clinically as well as by OCT, reflectance confocal microscopy, and ultrasound, supplemented by histological verification at 3 months. Local skin reactions (LSRs) and side effects were evaluated on days 1, 3-5, 14, 30, and month 3. Drug detection in tumors and blood was performed in a subset of patients 1- and 24 hours after treatment. RESULTS: Nineteen patients completed the trial, with 32% (6/19) receiving a single treatment and 68% (13/19) treated twice. At 3 months, clinical clearance was seen in 18/19 patients with a corresponding 94% (17/18) achieving histological clearance. Baseline tumor thickness and subtype did not influence treatment number or clearance rate (P ≥ 0.61). LSRs were well-tolerated and consisted of erythema, edema, and erosion, followed by crusting by day 14. Erythema declined gradually by month 3, with 94% of patients and 79% of physicians rating cosmesis as "good" or "excellent." Scarring or hyperpigmentation was noted in 50% and 56%, respectively, while pain and infection were not observed during the follow-up period. Although chemotherapy uptake was visualized extending to deep skin layers, no systemic exposure to cisplatin or 5-FU was detected in patient blood. CONCLUSION: Laser-assisted cisplatin + 5-FU shows potential as an effective and tolerable treatment option for low-risk BCC, particularly in instances where self-application is not possible or where in-office, non-surgical therapy is preferred. Lasers Surg. Med. © 2020 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Fractional 1,927 nm Thulium Laser Plus Photodynamic Therapy Compared and Combined for Photodamaged Décolleté Skin: A Side-by-Side Randomized Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Décolleté photodamage is a common condition typically treated with light and energy-based devices. This study investigated the efficacy and safety of a fractional 1,927 nm thulium laser (TL) alone and combined with photodynamic therapy (PDT). STUDY DESIGN/MATERIALS AND METHODS: In a 12-week follow-up study, participant décolletés were divided into four treatment areas and randomized to receive a single treatment with field-directed TL, PDT, combination TL-PDT, or lesion-directed curettage control. All actinic keratoses (AKs) underwent lesion-directed curettage before randomization. TL was delivered at 20 mJ/mb, 500 mJ/cm2 fluence, 5 W, and 8 (n = 6 pts.) or 16 (n = 6 pts.) passes. PDT was performed with 16% methyl aminolevulinate (MAL) creme incubated for 3 h, followed by red light-emitting diode light at 37 J/cm2 . Outcome measures included clinical assessment of overall photodamage and specific subcomponents, assisted by optical coherence tomography (OCT) imaging. RESULTS: Twelve women with moderate to severe photodamage on the décolleté and a cumulative total of 184 thin grade I AKs were included. Field-directed treatments TL and combination TL-PDT equally improved the overall photodamage, mottled pigmentation, and rhytides compared with lesion-directed control (P < 0.05). The skin texture improved by TL alone and was further improved by combining TL and PDT (P < 0.05). Median AK complete responses were similar for field-directed interventions TL-PDT (100%), TL (90%), PDT (82%), and lesion-directed curettage control (52%) (P = 0.464). Patients presented with mild local skin responses, slightly more pronounced when combining TL with PDT versus individual treatments (P < 0.05). No scarring or adverse events were observed. CONCLUSIONS: The 1,927 nm fractional thulium laser is an effective, tolerable, and safe field-directed treatment for décolleté photodamage. Provided alone, TL proved to be as effective as combined TL-PDT for overall photodamage, while a greater improvement in skin texture was achieved using TL and PDT in combination. Lasers Surg. Med. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Microneedle fractional radiofrequency-induced micropores evaluated by in vivo reflectance confocal microscopy, optical coherence tomography, and histology.

BACKGROUND: Microneedle fractional radiofrequency (MNRF) is a minimally invasive technique that delivers radiofrequency (RF) energy into the skin via microneedles. Reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) and optical coherence tomography (OCT) enable the characterization of device-tissue interactions in in vivo skin. The aim of this study is to describe MNRF-induced micropores using RCM and OCT imaging. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Five healthy participants were treated with a 7 × 7 array of 1500 µm microneedles on two adjacent areas of the right hip. One area received MNRF using high RF energy while the other underwent MNRF at low RF energy. Micropore morphology was evaluated qualitatively and quantitatively with RCM and OCT. To relate imaging with histology, one participant underwent punch biopsy in both areas. RESULTS: Reflectance confocal microscopy visualized shape, content, and thermal-induced coagulation zone (CZ) of MNRF micropores. At high RF energy, micropores showed concentric shape, contained hyperreflective granules, and coagulated tissue from epidermis to dermo-epidermal junction (diameter 63-85 µm). Micropores at low RF energy, presented with a stellate shape, no content and CZs that were visible only in epidermis (CZ thickness 9 µm, IQR 8-21 µm). Evaluating OCT, high RF energy showed deeper (150 µm), more easily identifiable micropores compared to low RF energy micropores (70 µm). Histology showed tissue coagulation to a depth of 1500 µm at high RF energy, while at low RF energy, disruption was only visible in epidermis. CONCLUSION: Microneedle fractional radiofrequency micropores show distinct characteristics in both RCM and OCT, depending on RF energy. These in vivo imaging modalities are complementary and allow combined, qualitative, and quantitative evaluation.

Challenges to laser-assisted drug delivery: Applying theory to clinical practice.

BACKGROUND: The percutaneous penetration of topically applied compounds can be enhanced using external chemical or physical sources and thus laser-assisted drug delivery is a burgeoning area of interest within the field of dermatology. OBJECTIVES: This article briefly discusses the mechanism of laser-assisted drug delivery and expands upon the challenges and safety issues that may arise in the clinical implementation of this modality. RESULTS: The existing literature demonstrates that investigators and clinicians in dermatology have successfully delivered anti-inflammatory, anti-neoplastic, and anti-oxidative medications transdermally for the treatment of a variety of conditions including scarring, photoageing, and cutaneous neoplasia. Despite growth of the field, much remains to be learned about the applicability of laser-assisted drug delivery in humans, and practitioners are faced with new safety concerns that may be associated with this treatment modality. CONCLUSIONS: Challenges in laser assisted drug delivery include unpredictability of dosing and response to therapy, possibility of inducing local and systemic reactions, and variability in treatment regimens. Lasers Surg. Med. 50:20-27, 2018. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Early intervention with non-ablative fractional laser to improve cutaneous scarring-A randomized controlled trial on the impact of intervention time and fluence levels.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Laser treatment in the early phases of wound healing may reduce scar formation. However, little is known on when in the early wound healing phases laser exposure most optimally should be provided and at which fluence levels. This study investigates the clinical effect of non-ablative-fractional-laser (NAFL) performed at three early time points at a range of fluence levels versus untreated control scars. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A randomized, controlled, intra-individual trial with erbium-glass 1,540 nm NAFL versus no laser treatment on sixteen subjects receiving 10 standardized full-thickness punch-biopsy wounds. A single NAFL-exposure was applied to test-wounds 1 day before, immediately after, or 2 weeks after wounding. Three fluence levels provided deep and superficial energy depositions (range 30-70 mJ/microbeam). Primary outcome comprised the total-score of the observer part of Patient-Observer-Scar-Assessment-Scale (POSAS), performed by blinded on-site assessment at 3 months follow-up. Secondary outcomes were clinical evaluation on visual-analogue-scale (VAS), reflectance measurements, and histology. RESULTS: NAFL-treatment applied 1 day before, immediately after or 2 weeks after wounding had the potential to offer subtle but detectable improvement in clinical scar appearance compared to untreated controls. Thus, NAFL-exposure 1 day before wounding (POSAS-total: median of 15 vs. control-median of 16, P = 0.03, VAS: median 4.1 vs. control-median 5.5, P = 0.03, medium-fluence), as well as immediately-, and 2 weeks after wounding (POSAS-total: P ≤ 0.05, low-fluence) induced improvement compared to untreated controls. No significant differences in dyschromia were detected between NAFL-treated and control scars. Histology showed subtle changes towards more mature interwoven bundles of collagen in NAFL-treated scars as compared to controls. CONCLUSIONS: This study indicates that a single NAFL-treatment at low to medium fluence performed 1 day prior, or in the early phases of wound healing, may have the potential to optimize scar formation in full thickness wounds. Lasers Surg. Med. 50:28-36, 2018. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

A randomized side-by-side study comparing alexandrite laser at different pulse durations for port wine stains.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Pulsed dye laser (PDL) represents the gold-standard treatment for port wine stains (PWS). However, approximately 20% of patients are poor responders and yield unsatisfactory end-results. The Alexandrite (Alex) laser may be a therapeutic alternative for selected PWS subgroups, but optimal laser parameters are not known. The aim of this study was to assess clinical PWS clearance and safety of Alex laser at a range of pulse durations. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Sixteen individuals (14 previously PDL-treated) with deep red (n = 4), purple macular (n = 5) and purple hypertrophic (n = 7) PWS were included. Four side-by-side test areas were marked within each lesion. Three test areas were randomized to Alex laser at pulse durations of 3, 5, or 10 ms (8 mm spot, DCD 60/40), while the fourth was untreated. The lowest effective fluence to create purpura within the entire test spot was titrated and applied to intervention areas. Standardized clinical photographs were taken prior to, immediately after laser exposure and at 6-8 weeks follow up. Clinical PWS clearance and laser-related side effects were assessed using clinical photos. RESULTS: Alex laser at 3, 5, and 10 ms pulse durations demonstrated significant clearance compared to untreated controls (P < 0.001). Three milli second pulse duration exhibited improved clearance versus 5 ms (P = 0.016) and 10 ms (P = 0.004), while no difference between five and 10 ms was shown (P = 0.063). Though not significant, good responders (>50% clearance) were more likely to have purple hypertrophic PWS (5/7) compared to purple macular (2/5) and deep red lesions (1/4). Eight laser-exposed test areas (17%) developed hypopigmented atrophic scarring. Side effects tended to be more frequently observed with 5 ms (n = 4) and 10 ms (n = 3) versus 3 ms pulse duration (n = 1). Correspondingly, 3 ms was associated with a superior (n = 6) or comparable (n = 10) overall cosmetic appearance for all individuals. CONCLUSION: Alex laser at 3 ms pulse duration offers superior clinical clearance and safety compared to 5 and 10 ms, and seems best suited for purple hypertrophic PWS. Treatment should be restricted to experienced personnel due to a particularly narrow therapeutic window. Lasers Surg. Med. 49:97-103, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Fractional CO2 laser treatment of caesarean section scars-A randomized controlled split-scar trial with long term follow-up assessment.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Caesarean section (c-section) scars can be pose functional and cosmetic challenges and ablative fractional laser (AFXL) treatment may offer benefit to patients. We evaluated textural and color changes over time in AFXL-treated versus untreated control scars. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A randomized, controlled, intra-individual split-scar trial with three sessions of AFXL-treatments for mature c-section scars. Settings of AFXL were adjusted to each individual scar. End-points were blinded on-site clinical evaluations at 1, 3, and 6 months follow-up (Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale [POSAS] and Vancouver Scar Scale [VSS]), blinded photo-evaluations, reflectance measurements, tissue histology, and patients satisfaction. RESULTS: Eleven of 12 patients completed the study. At 1 month follow-up, AFXL-treated scars were significantly improved in pliability (POSAS P = 0.01 VSS P = 0.02) and smoother in surface relief (POSAS P = 0.03) compared to control scars. At 1-3 months, overall scar appearance was dominated by transient erythema and hyperpigmentation, confirmed by reflectance measurements (erythema% and pigmentation% peaked at 1 and 3 month follow-up, respectively). At 6 months follow-up, AFXL-treated scars improved on POSAS-total score though not significantly (P = 0.06). Correspondingly, blinded photo-evaluation found AFXL-treated scars significantly improved compared to controls (VAS P = 0.02). Histology indicated new dermal collagen and elastic fibers on AFXL-treated scars. At 6 months follow-up, a majority of patients (64%) favored subsequent AFXL-treatment of their untreated control scar tissue. CONCLUSIONS: Scar remodeling is initiated 1 month after AFXL treatment, but overall scar improvement is concealed until laser-induced color changes resolve. At 6 months follow-up, the benefit of AFXL treatment on c-section scars emerges. Lasers Surg. Med. 49:189-197, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Opportunities for laser-assisted drug delivery in the treatment of cutaneous disorders.

Fractional laser-assisted drug delivery (LADD) is increasingly finding its way into clinical practice as a new means to enhance topical drug uptake and improve treatment of cutaneous disorders. To date, LADD has been used for a wide range of conditions, including photodamaged skin, neoplastic lesions, scars, cutaneous infections, and vitiligo as well as for topical anesthetic and aesthetic procedures. Substantiated by randomized controlled clinical trials, strong evidence is available for LADD's usefulness for photodynamic therapy (PDT), for which improved efficacy using laser-assisted photosensitizer treatment is established for actinic keratosis compared with conventional PDT. Over time, the modality has undergone increasing refinement and offers the potential advantages of reduced treatment durations, shortened incubation times, and the replacement of cumbersome, patient-dependent treatment regimens with quick, in-office procedures. Notwithstanding, LADD is still a new enhancement technique, and risks of both local and systemic adverse events are insufficiently explored. With conscientious development, however, LADD promises to improve existing regimens and make new pharmacological treatments a reality for a wide range of cutaneous disorders.

Early Results of a Screening Program for Skin Cancer in Liver Transplant Recipients: A Cohort Study.

(1) Background: Skin cancer is the most common cancer in transplant recipients. Timely and regular screening may reduce advanced disease. The study aimed to determine referral rates to screening, the incidence, and risk factors of skin cancer in a Danish liver transplant recipient cohort. (2) Methods: All first-time liver transplant recipients, >18 years old, attending outpatient care between January 2018 and December 2021 were included. The referral rates and incidence of skin cancer/preneoplastic lesions were calculated. Risk factors were assessed using Cox regression analyses. (3) Results: Of the 246 included recipients, 219 (89.0%) were referred to screening, and 102 skin cancer/preneoplastic lesions were diagnosed in 32 (15.6%) recipients. The IR of any skin cancer/preneoplastic lesion was 103.2 per 1000 person-years. BCC was the most frequent skin cancer followed by SCC, IR: 51.3 vs. 27.1 per 1000 person-years, respectively. No cases of MM were observed. The IR of actinic keratosis and Bowen's Disease were 48.1 vs. 13.2 per 1000 person-years, respectively. Time since transplantation was independently associated with skin cancer/preneoplastic lesions, HR (95%CI) 2.81 (1.64-4.80). (4) Conclusions: The study determined the incidence and risk factors of skin cancer/preneoplastic lesions in liver transplant recipients enrolled in a screening program, while demonstrating a high screening referral rate.

Off-Label 9-Valent Human Papillomavirus Vaccination for Actinic Keratosis: A Case Series.

BACKGROUND: The suspected link between human papillomavirus (HPV) and the development of premalignant and malignant skin lesions remains inadequately examined in clinical settings. This case series describes HPV vaccination as an off-label adjuvant therapy for actinic keratosis (AK). METHODS: Twelve immunocompetent AK patients underwent HPV vaccination at a private dermatology clinic in Naestved, Denmark. Prior to vaccination, all patients demonstrated a high AK burden that required regular control visits. At 0, 2, and 6 months, the patients received an intramuscular injection of a commercially available 9-valent HPV vaccine. Concurrently, patients continued conventional AK therapies at 3-month intervals. Clinical response, consisting of reduction in AK number and general change in skin appearance, was assessed by a dermatologist over 12 months following first vaccination. RESULTS: All patients (mean age 76.2 years; 10 M and 2 F) completed the vaccine schedule. Overall, an average 85% reduction in total AK burden was recorded 12 months after beginning vaccination. Median AK burden thus fell from 56 (IQR: 44-80) to 13.5 (IQR: 1-18) lesions after 12 months. Lesion reduction was observable by the second inoculation at month 2 (34 AKs; IQR 22-80), continuing steadily until month 6 (15 AKs; IQR 5-30) and plateauing between 6 and 12 months. Clinically, HPV vaccination elicited fading of lesions' erythematous background after the first dose, often followed by sloughing of hyperkeratotic elements in subsequent weeks. Patients reported no adverse effects related to HPV vaccination. CONCLUSION: This case series introduces the possibility that 9-valent HPV vaccination in combination with conventional treatments may be used as a therapeutic strategy for AK.