Diagnosis of Skin Disease in Moderately to Highly Pigmented Skin by Artificial Intelligence.

BACKGROUND: Triage of patients with skin diseases often includes an initial assessment by a nurse or general practitioner, followed by a dermatologist. Artificial intelligence (AI) systems have been reported to improve clinician ability to diagnose and triage skin conditions. Previous studies have also shown that diagnosis in patients with skin of color can be more challenging. PURPOSE: This study seeks to determine the performance of AI in the screening and triage of benign-neoplastic, malignant-neoplastic, and non-neoplastic skin conditions for Fitzpatrick skin types IV-VI. METHODS: A set of 163 non-standardized clinical photographs of skin disease manifestations from patients with Fitzpatrick skin types IV-VI were obtained through a publicly available dataset (Scale AI and MIT Research Lab, “Fitzpatrick 17 Dataset”). All photos were diagnosed by a specialist and categorized into three disease classes: benign-neoplastic, malignant-neoplastic, or non-neoplastic. There were 23, 14, and 122 cases of each disease class, respectively. RESULTS: Overall, the AI was able to classify the disease classes with a high degree of accuracy for the Top 1 diagnosis (86.50%). Based on its first prediction, the AI demonstrated the greatest accuracy when classifying non-neoplastic conditions (90.98%), high accuracy in detecting malignant-neoplastic conditions (77.78%), and moderate accuracy of classifying benign-neoplastic conditions (69.57%). CONCLUSION: The AI had an overall accuracy of 86.50% in diagnosing skin disease in Fitzpatrick skin types IV to VI. This is an improvement over reported clinician diagnostic accuracy of 44.3% in darker skin types. Incorporating AI into front-line screening of skin conditions could thereby assist in patient triage and shorten the time to accurate diagnosis. Schneider LG, Mamelak AJ, Tejani I, et al. Diagnosis of skin disease in moderately to highly pigmented skin by artificial intelligence. J Drugs Dermatol. 2023;22(7):647-652. doi:10.36849/JDD.7581.

Non-Invasive Diagnosis of Sun Damaged Skin: Actinic Keratosis Vs Squamous Cell Carcinoma.

IMPORTANCE: Actinic keratosis (AK) is a premalignant lesion that has a1% to 10% potential of progression to squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), but it is not possible to determine which lesions are at higher risk. OBJECTIVE: This study examined the epidermal genetic profiles of actinic keratosis and SCC through non-invasive techniques seeking to develop a biopsy-free method for AK monitoring and aid in the early diagnosis of developing SCC. DESIGN: Ribonucleic acid (RNA) was collected from adhesive tape strips and gene expression levels were measured. A threshold fold change >2 and adjusted P-value <0.05 were used to determine differentially expressed genes. SETTING: Single center dermatology clinic. PARTICIPANTS: Patients who presented to the clinic with lesions suspicious of non-melanoma skin cancer that had never been previously biopsied. MAIN OUTCOME AND MEASURE: RNA was extracted via non-invasive biopsy and sequenced. Low quality samples were filtered out and the remaining samples underwent differential gene expression analysis by DESeq2 in R package. A threshold of fold change >2 and adjusted P-value <0.05 was used for determination of differentially expressed genes. The differentially expressed genes that overlapped between the corrected and uncorrected groups were the most significant for analysis. RESULTS: From 47 lesions, 6 significant differentially expressed genes were found between AK and SCC, and 25 significant differentially expressed genes between in-situ SCC and invasive SCC. Individual samples showed similarities based on diagnosis, suggesting mutations were specific to the disease and not the individual. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE: These findings highlight which genes may play a role in AK progression to SCC. The genomic differences between in-situ and invasive squamous cell carcinoma open an opportunity for early diagnosis of squamous cell carcinoma and risk prediction of actinic keratosis. J Drugs Dermatol. 2023;22(5): doi:10.36849/JDD.7097.

Ultraviolet B-Rays Induced Gene Alterations and DNA Repair Enzymes in Skin Tissue.

BACKGROUND: Ultraviolet (UV) radiation leads to deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) damage and changes in gene expression. Topical DNA repair enzymes in liposomes are capable of undoing this damage. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate gene expression changes induced by ultraviolent B-rays (UVB) light and assess the effect of topical DNA repair enzymes extracted from Micrococcus luteus (M. luteus) and photolyase in modifying these changes. METHODS: Non-invasive, adhesive patch collection kits were used to sample skin on the right and left post-auricular areas before and 24 hours after UVB exposure (n=48). Subjects applied topical DNA repair enzymes to the right post-auricular area daily for 2 weeks. Subjects returned 2 weeks later for repeat non-invasive skin sample collection. RESULTS: Eight of 18 tested genes demonstrated significant changes 24 hours following UVB exposure. DNA repair enzymes from M. luteus or photolyase had no significant effect on genetic expression compared with the control at 2 weeks post UV exposure. CONCLUSION: UVB exposure causes acute changes in gene expression, which may play roles in photo-aging damage and skin cancer growth and regulation. While non-invasive gene expression testing can detect UV damage, additional genomic studies investigating recovery from UV damage at different time periods are needed to establish the potential of DNA repair enzymes to minimize or reverse this damage. J Drugs Dermatol. 2023;22(5): doi:10.36849/JDD.7070.

Artificial Intelligence in the Evaluation of Telemedicine Dermatology Patients.

BACKGROUND: Background: Early detection of malignant skin lesions reduces morbidity. There is increased need for a telemedicine triage tool to prioritize patients who require in-person evaluation for potential malignancy. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the utility of artificial intelligence (AI) in telemedicine triage and diagnosis of cutaneous lesions. METHODS: Clinical photographs of unbiopsied skin lesions were presented to AI software and three board-certified dermatologists with 18 years average clinical experience. Diagnoses were compared with biopsy reports of the same lesions. RESULTS: Results from 100 images revealed no significant diagnostic difference between AI and a panel of three dermatologists when using the AI top three differential diagnoses. The AI correctly identified 63% of the cases whereas the dermatology group correctly identified 64.3% of the cases (P<.05). In summary, there was no statistically significant difference when evaluating lesions. CONCLUSION: The use of artificial intelligence as a method of triaging patients with potential skin cancer is a very useful option in telemedicine, as AI identification of BCC, SCC, and melanoma did not significantly differ from board-certified dermatologists. Both dermatologists and non-dermatologists will benefit from an AI triage system, prioritizing lesions that the software deems malignant. J Drugs Dermatol. 2022;21(2):191-194. doi:10.36849/JDD.6277.

The Second of Two One-Year, Multicenter, Open-Label, Repeat-Dose, Phase II Safety Studies of PrabotulinumtoxinA for the Treatment of Moderate to Severe Glabellar Lines in Adult Patients.

BACKGROUND: PrabotulinumtoxinA is a 900-kDa botulinum toxin type A produced by Clostridium botulinum. OBJECTIVES: The authors sought to investigate the safety of prabotulinumtoxinA for treatment of glabellar lines. METHODS: This was a multicenter, open-label, repeat-dose, 1-year phase II safety study. Adults with moderate to severe glabellar lines at maximum frown, as independently assessed by both investigator and patient on the validated 4-point photonumeric Glabellar Line Scale (0 = no lines, 1 = mild, 2 = moderate, 3 = severe), were enrolled. On day 0, patients received an initial treatment (IT) of 20 U prabotulinumtoxinA (4 U/0.1 mL final vacuum-dried formulation injected into 5 glabellar sites). On and after day 90, patients received a repeat treatment (RT) if their Glabellar Line Scale score was ≥2 at maximum frown by investigator assessment. Safety outcomes were evaluated throughout the study. RESULTS: The 570 study patients received a median total dose of 60 U, that is, 3 treatments. Sixty-one patients (10.7%) experienced adverse events (AEs) assessed as possibly study drug related; 6.5% experienced study drug-related AEs after the IT. With each RT, progressively lower percentages of patients experienced study drug-related AEs. Eight patients (1.4%) experienced study drug-related AEs of special interest: 5 experienced eyelid ptosis (0.9%), 3 eyebrow ptosis (0.5%), 1 blepharospasm (0.2%), and 1 blurred vision (0.2%). Seven patients (1.2%) experienced serious AEs, but none were study drug related. A total of 4060 serum samples were tested for antibotulinum toxin antibodies; no seroconversion was observed. CONCLUSIONS: The safety of RTs of 20 U of prabotulinumtoxinA for moderate to severe glabellar lines was confirmed in this second phase II study based on a broad range of outcomes.

Prevention of Scarring With Intraoperative Erbium: YAG Laser Treatment.

BACKGROUND: Scars can develop as a result of surgical incisions and pose psychological, cosmetic, and physical stress to the patients affected. Lasers have been used for scar revision, but little information exists regarding intraoperative use and efficacy. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate a 2,940-nm fractional erbium:YAG laser to improve scar appearance when used immediately after skin closure. METHODS AND MATERIALS: Patients undergoing complex closures of at least 1.5 cm in length were recruited. Half of the wound received treatment with 2,940 erbium:YAG laser immediately after skin closure. Follow up occurred at 1 week and 12 weeks, postoperatively. Patient self-assessment was performed at the final visit. Photographs were evaluated by three blinded dermatologic surgeons. RESULTS: 18 patients completed the treatment protocol and follow-up. 61.1% of patients reported that the treated side was cosmetically superior to the control side. A majority of patients said the treated side was superior in elevation, erythema, and similarity to normal skin. Physician evaluation showed that the treated half was cosmetically superior in 12 of 18 patients (66.7%). CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrates that a 2,940-nm erbium:YAG laser treatment, performed immediately after surgery, can improve the appearance of a surgical scar. J Drugs Dermatol. 2020;19(11): 1040-1043. doi:10.36849/JDD.2020.5244.

Lasers for the prevention and treatment of hypertrophic scars: a review of the literature.

Despite the increasing knowledge about wound healing mechanisms and the advancements made in laser technology, hypertrophic scars remain difficult to manage. This review intends to discuss the laser devices studied in the prevention and treatment of HS, arising from trauma, surgery, and burns, detail their mechanisms of action, and emphasize those devices with the most promising effects. Most of the suggested mechanisms and explanations for the use of lasers in treating hypertrophic scars are based on selective photothermolysis, in which the light energy emitted from a laser is absorbed by its intended target, thereby disrupting existing collagen and altering the cycle of neocollagenesis. Through our literature review, we have determined that combination therapies, utilizing more than one laser target demonstrate enhanced clinical efficacy. Further, early use of laser devices has been shown to enhance the cosmetic result of sutured wounds and may play a role in preventing the development of hypertrophic scars.

Management of acute radiation dermatitis: A review of the literature and proposal for treatment algorithm.

Radiation dermatitis is a common sequela of radiation therapy; up to 95% of patients will develop moderate-to-severe skin reactions. No criterion standard currently exists for the treatment of acute radiation-induced skin toxicity. It is therefore imperative to develop a greater understanding of management options available to allow clinicians to make informed decisions when managing radiation oncology patients. This literature review discusses the topical agents that have been studied for the treatment of acute radiation dermatitis, reviews their mechanisms of action, and presents a treatment algorithm for clinicians managing patients experiencing radiation dermatitis.

A Randomized, Controlled, Split-Face Study of the Efficacy of a Picosecond Laser in the Treatment of Melasma

Introduction: Melasma is a common disorder where patients develop hyperpigmented macules and patches on the face and is thought to be the result of sun exposure and hormonal contributions, although the pathogenesis is not completely understood. Lasers have been used for melasma treatment with varying degrees of success. Objectives: The objective of this study was to examine the safety and efficacy of a novel picosecond laser for the treatment of melasma. Materials and Methods: Ten subjects received nine weekly laser treatments with a picosecond laser to a randomized half of their face. A lightening cream was applied to the entire face to serve as a control. The primary outcome measure was clinical efficacy measured by a patient-reported outcome survey, the Melasma Quality of Life (MELASQOL) questionnaire, and physician assessment with the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS). The secondary outcome measure was safety, which was assessed by monitoring for adverse events. Photos were taken before every treatment and at a 1-week follow-up. Results: Ninety percent of subjects rated their melasma as at least slightly better, and 90% percent of subjects would recommend this laser treatment to others with melasma. MELASQoL questionnaire scores improved by an average of 5.7 points after laser treatment. Assessments by two board-certified dermatologists using the GAIS revealed an overall improvement in 80% of patients on the laser treatment side versus 20% on the control side. Side effects, including erythema and discomfort, were minimal and transient post-treatment. Conclusions: This study suggests that picosecond laser treatments are a safe and efficacious way to treat melasma. J Drugs Dermatol. 2019;18(11):1104-1107.

Non-Invasive Buccal Swab Gene Testing for Skin Cancer Risk

Background: Studies have identified numerous genetic polymorphisms associated with increased risk of melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC). In this pilot study, we aimed to examine whether previously identified melanoma and non-melanoma associated single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) which were found to be associated with cutaneous malignancy were also present in a relatively heterogeneous population with a history of skin cancer versus an age and environmental matched controls. The undertaking of this project serves to further the current understanding of the genetic profile for those at higher risk for developing skin cancer. Methods: Nineteen NMSC patients and their age-matched and environmental controls underwent genotyping of 7 previously discovered SNPs associated with melanoma and NMSC. Results: In a random, heterogeneous population in Southern California, SNP's Chr1, PAD16, PIGU, TDG had a similar association with NMSC previously reported in prior studies. Due to small trial size, no conclusions or observable associations could be drawn from the SNPs MC1R, TP53, and XRCC1. Conclusion: This data supports that 4 of the 7 SNP's studied had similar associations and could potentially be predictive tool of NMSC risk in this patient population. The remaining three SNP's did not have a definitive association with malignancy. Larger studies are needed to further elucidate the specific roles of these SNPs collectively and ultimately to develop a genetic profile for those patients at increased risk of developing skin cancer. J Drugs Dermatol. 2019;18(5):448-453.

Novel Modality for Neck Rejuvenation: A Prospective Multicenter Trial of Percutaneous Radiofrequency Ablation of the Cervical Branch of the Facial Nerve.

BACKGROUND: Neck rejuvenation offers few modalities of treatments limited to either invasive plastic surgery or temporary neuromodulation using botulinum toxin. OBJECTIVE: To access the efficacy, longevity, and safety of percutaneous monopolar radiofrequency (RF) ablation of the cervical branch of the facial nerve innervating the platysma for neck rejuvenation. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This prospective, multicenter trial enrolled 19 adult patients with noticeable platysmal banding at 2 different centers. All patients underwent RF ablation on the cervical branch of the facial nerve. Response was assessed immediately after treatment and then at 1, 4, 12, and 24 weeks after the procedure using photography. Masked investigators compared baseline photography and follow-up intervals to evaluate the results. RESULTS: Seventeen of the 18 patients had improvement in the platysmal banding. One patient was disqualified after ablation. Long-term sequalae such as scarring, burns, ulceration, hypopigmentation, or hyperpigmentation were not reported. CONCLUSION: The results of this multicenter study support that RF ablation of the cervical branch of the facial nerve is a novel technique that results in improvement of platysmal banding. This technique is an emerging alternative, nonsurgical option for neck rejuvenation that is relatively safe, with little downtime for the patient.

A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Split-Face Study of the Efficacy of Topical Epidermal Growth Factor for the Treatment of Melasma.

INTRODUCTION: Melasma is a condition in which patients develop symmetric, reticulated, hyperpigmented macules and patches on the face which is thought to be the result of ultraviolet (UV) exposure and hormonal influences, although the pathogenesis is not completely understood. The topical application of epidermal growth factor has been used as a whitening agent, moisturizer, and an aid for wound healing. In this study, we explore the efficacy of topical EGF in the treatment of melasma. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, split-face study to determine the efficacy of a topical EGF serum in the treatment of melasma. Fifteen women with a mean age of 44 were randomized to treatment side of the face and applied a topical EGF serum and a placebo twice daily to each designated side of the face for eight weeks. Patient satisfaction was assessed by use of the MelasQoL Questionnaire as well as a patient outcome survey. Subjects were evaluated using the Physician Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS) by two board-certified dermatologists. RESULTS: GAIS scores showed an improvement in the melasma in 73.4% of subjects vs 13% improvement for the placebo side. The average MelasQoL questionnaire score decreased from 42 to 33 with 73% of subjects having an improvement in their score. In addition, 73% of subjects reported an improvement in their melasma. No adverse events or side effects were reported with use of the topical serum or placebo. CONCLUSIONS: This study suggests that topical EGF is a safe, noninvasive, and effective treatment for melasma. J Drugs Dermatol. 2018;17(6):970-973.

Skin Cancer Prevention: A Review of Current Oral Options Complementary to Sunscreens

The incidence of non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) is dramatically increasing worldwide, despite the increased use of improved sunscreens. In 2014, the Surgeon General estimated that 2.2 to 5.0 million people are treated annually for NMSC.1-3 For decades, recommendations for sun protection have remained insufficient; subsequently, the numbers of newly diagnosed skin cancers continue to rise, and there is a need for additional preventative measures beyond sunscreens. The objective of this article is to review current oral prescription medications as well as supplements that may play an important role in skin cancer prevention. J Drugs Dermatol. 2018;17(12):1266-1271.

Gene Expression Analysis Differentiates Melanomas from Spitz Nevi.

INTRODUCTION: Pediatric Spitz nevi can pose significant diagnostic challenges to both clinicians and dermatopathologists when the current image-recognition based gold standard is employed. PRAME (preferentially expressed antigen in melanoma) and/or LINC (long intergeneic non-coding RNA 518) gene expression in adult patients in samples obtained non-invasively via adhesive patches differentiates primary melanomas from atypical nevi and other pigmented lesions with a NPV of over 99%, a sensitivity of 91%, and a specificity of 69%, to help clinicians rule out melanoma and the need for surgical biopsies of atypial pigmented lesions with suspicion for melanoma. Surgically obtained melanomas from adult patients show the same gene expression pattern. METHODS: In this study, we investigate gene expression patterns of pigmented lesions from FFPE tissue block samples (n=23, 9 male, 14 female patients, median age 12) with a focus on differentiating Spitz nevi from melanomas in children and young adults. RESULTS: PRAME levels were significantly (P less than 0.001) increased based on normalized Ct cycle counts (lower cycle counts indicate higher expression levels) in melanomas (mean Ct 33.83 + 0.54, 95% CI 32.85-34.80) when compared to Spitz nevi (mean Ct 37.21 + 0.98, 95% CI 35.41-39.01) or common nevi (mean Ct 36.94 + 0.80, 95% CI 35.47-38.40), respectively. LINC and 4 control genes showed similar expression levels in all 3 pigmented lesion groups investigated. Clinically and histopathologically complex pediatric Spitz nevi demonstrated gene expression signatures almost identical to gene expression signatures of common pediatric nevi but different from melanomas in children and young adults. DISCUSSION: PRAME but not LINC gene expression can be a valuable molecular aid to differentiate melanomas from Spitz nevi, groups of pigmented lesions that can be particularly difficult to assess in children and young adults. J Drugs Dermatol. 2018;17(5):574-576.

Male Surgical Neck Rejuvenation.

BACKGROUND: Patients who are aging, with weight gain, and increased skin laxity, request dermatologists to improve their neck area. Surgical and nonsurgical options are reviewed as well as benefits and side effects. This article will focus on how surgical techniques can be applied for male patients in particular. OBJECTIVE: To review surgical neck rejuvenation therapies available currently to find the best option for male patients. CONCLUSION: Surgical treatment of the male neck to improve mandibular contour and loose neck skin requires tightening of the platysmal muscle and usually skin removal in the postauricular sulcus and into the hairline. Most patients choose to have this performed underline tumescent anesthesia when given the choice of sedation versus local anesthesia. The other surgical variations of improving the neck contour on a male include using a direct excision by a midline incision starting in the submental crease and extending down the anterior neck. This approach allows for maximum tightening of the platysmal bands. The incision line can be minimized using intraoperative laser resurfacing immediately after suturing. Chin implants are necessary in some patients to give good neck improvement. The isolated neck lift is one the most common procedures requested by men asking for neck improvement.

An Adhesive Patch-Based Skin Biopsy Device for Molecular Diagnostics and Skin Microbiome Studies.

INTRODUCTION: A number of diagnoses in clinical dermatology are currently histopathologically confirmed and this image recognition-based confirmation generally requires surgical biopsies. The increasing ability of molecular pathology to corroborate or correct a clinical diagnosis based on objective gene expression, mutation analysis, or molecular microbiome data is on the horizon and would be further supported by a tool or procedure to collect samples non-invasively. This study characterizes such a tool in form of a 'bladeless' adhesive patch-based skin biopsy device. METHODS: The performance of this device was evaluated through a variety of complementary technologies including assessment of sample biomass, electron microscopy demonstrating the harvesting of layers of epidermal tissue, and isolation of RNA and DNA from epidermal skin samples. Samples were obtained by application of adhesive patches to the anatomical area of interest. RESULTS: Biomass assessment demonstrated collection of approximately 0.3mg of skin tissue per adhesive patch and electron microscopy confirmed the nature of the harvested epidermal skin tissue. The obtained tissue samples are stored in a stable fashion on adhesive patches over a wide range of temperatures (-80oC to +60oC) and for extended periods of time (7 days or more). Total human RNA, human genomic DNA and microbiome DNA yields were 23.35 + 15.75ng, 27.72 + 20.71ng and 576.2 + 376.8pg, respectively, in skin samples obtained from combining 4 full patches collected non-invasively from the forehead of healthy volunteers. DISCUSSION: The adhesive patch skin sampling procedure is well tolerated and provides robust means to obtain skin tissue, RNA, DNA, and microbiome samples without involving surgical biopsies. The non-invasively obtained skin samples can be shipped cost effectively at ambient temperature by mail or standard courier service, and are suitable for a variety of molecular analyses of the skin microbiome as well as of keratinocytes, T cells, dendritic cells, melanocytes, and other skin cells involved in the pathology of various skin conditions and conditions where the skin can serve as a surrogate target organ.

J Drugs Dermatol. 2017;16(10):979-986.

Improvement of Actinic Keratoses Using Topical DNA Repair Enzymes: A Randomized Placebo-Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND: Actinic keratoses (AKs) are proliferations of abnormal keratinocytes, which may progress into non-melanoma skin cancers. Although multiple treatment modalities exist for AKs, their incidence continues to rise, making new methods of both prevention and treatment necessary. DNA repair enzymes have been shown to reverse sun-damage, resulting in reduced rates of AKs and non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) in specific patient populations. OBJECTIVE: We investigated the efficacy of a topical DNA repair enzyme lotion as a field therapy for AKs. METHODS: In a single center, randomized double-blind study, we randomly assigned 15 patients with AKs on their face or scalp to receive topical DNA repair enzyme lotion or placebo (Eucerin Professional lotion). Lotion was self-applied to a treatment field twice daily for 8 consecutive weeks. Complete clearance (primary outcome) was assessed at week 8, and local reactions were quantitatively measured. Follow-up at week 12 assessed for continued clearance of AKs. RESULTS: Thirteen subjects completed the trial. Compared to baseline, patients who used the repair enzyme had significantly fewer AKs than those using the control lotion after 8-weeks treatment. Specifically, there was a 46.6% percent decrease in AKs the DNA repair enzyme lotion group compared to a 32.7% decrease in the placebo group. Significance between the two groups was noted at the12 week follow-up, where there was an additional 29.2% decrease in AK percentage in the DNA repair enzyme group, while the placebo group had a 31.4% increase in AKs (P=0.0026). On final self-assessment, 85% of subjects reported being at least "satisfied" with the ability of the medication to decrease their AK burden. No side effects were reported. CONCLUSION: These results suggest that topical DNA repair enzymes may help reduce the number of AKs in individuals with moderate-to-severe photodamaged skin. Additionally, there may be a lasting effect of the DNA repair if application is discontinued. Further, cutaneous malignancies were not detected in any of the subjects during the study period. Despite the brevity of the study, these preliminary results suggest the role of DNA repair enzymes for not only treatment, but also skin cancer prevention. Further study and more objective evaluation measures are required for definitive conclusions to be drawn.

J Drugs Dermatol. 2017;16(10):1030-1034.

Improvement of Atrophic Acne Scars in Skin of Color Using Topical Synthetic Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF) Serum: A Pilot Study.

BACKGROUND: Atrophic scarring in skin of color is a common, permanent, and distressing result of uncontrolled acne vulgaris. Ablative lasers and chemical peels are frequently used to improve the appearance of atrophic scars, primarily through the stimulation of collagen and elastin; however, these treatment modalities are associated with risks, such as dyspigmentation and hypertrophic scarring, especially in patients with darker skin.

OBJECTIVE: We evaluated the efficacy of topically applied synthetic epidermal growth factor (EGF) serum in reducing the appearance of atrophic acne scars in skin of color.

METHODS: A single-center clinical trial was performed on twelve healthy men and women (average age 32.5) with Fitzpatrick Type IV-V skin and evidence of facial grade II-IV atrophic acne scars. Subjects applied topical EGF serum to the full-face twice daily for 12 weeks. Scar improvement was investigated at each visit using an Investigator Global Assessment (IGA), a Goodman grade, clinical photography, and patient self-assessment.

RESULTS: Eleven subjects completed the trial. Compared to baseline, there was an improvement in mean IGA score from 3.36 (SEM = 0.15) to 2.18 (SEM = 0.33). Mean Goodman grade was reduced from 2.73 (SEM = 0.19) to 2.55 (SEM = 0.21). Of the eleven pairs of before and after photographs, nine were correctly chosen as the post-treatment image by a blind investigator. On self-assessment, 81% reported a "good" to "excellent" improvement in their scars compared to baseline (P = 0.004).

CONCLUSION: Topical EGF may improve the appearance of atrophic acne scars in skin of color. Additional, larger studies should be conducted to better characterize improvement.

J Drugs Dermatol. 2017;16(4):322-326.