A Randomized, Split-Face, Comparative Study of a Combined Needle Radiofrequency/Intense Pulsed Light Device in Moderate-to-Severe Acne Patients.

BACKGROUND: Radiofrequency (RF) and intense pulsed light (IPL) have been reported as efficient adjuvant treatment modalities for acne vulgaris. OBJECTIVE: We sought to evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety of a combined needle RF and vacuum IPL device for acne treatment without the use of other conventional topical or oral agents. METHODS: This randomized, split-faced study was designed to include patients with moderate to severe acne vulgaris. Comedone extraction was performed on both parts of the face prior to laser treatment. One side of the face was treated with RF and IPL in 2-week intervals, while the other side was left untreated as a control. Two independent blinded investigators evaluated the patients for improvement using clinical photographs. We also assessed for possible adverse effects. RESULTS: The study included 44 patients with acne vulgaris (27 men and 17 women). Their ages ranged from 19-39 years (average, 23 years). At the final 12-week follow-up visit, the acne reduction rate was 34.80% (±33.45%; range, 30.92%-19.03%) on the treated side and 13.76% (±37.58%; range, 28.26%-23.27%) in the control group compared to baseline, constituting a significant difference. The difference in reduction rate between the treated and control sides was 21.03% (±25.09%), with the treated side experiencing more significant improvement (p<0.05). In the assessment of adverse events, one patient experienced mild surrounding erythema that spontaneously improved. CONCLUSION: Combined treatment of needle RF and IPL could improve acne lesions.

Use of Optical Coherence Tomography to Assess Properties of Cutaneous Defects Following Radiofrequency Microneedling and Laser Treatment.

OBJECTIVES: To characterize the properties of cutaneous defects created by energy-based devices using optical coherence tomography. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Radiofrequency (RF) microneedling and non-ablative fractional laser (NAFL) treatment were performed in vivo with various parameters. Following treatment, optical coherence tomography (OCT) was used to image and measure cutaneous defects at multiple time points over a 24 h period. RESULTS: Channel-like cutaneous defects were visible with OCT following bipolar RF microneedling and NAFL treatment. Using a double pulse technique with RF microneedling yielded a greater number of defects visible with OCT, as well as defects that were deeper and more durable over time. Following treatment with 1927 nm thulium fiber laser, the average diameter of the defects was greater when the energy level was 20 mJ as compared to 10 mJ (0.33 mm vs. 0.27 mm, p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: Cutaneous defects were observed following both RF microneedling and NAFL treatment. Properties of the cutaneous defects varied based on device, treatment setting, and technique, which may be useful in guiding further study of device-assisted drug delivery.

Combination Therapy With CGF and Microneedling-Assisted Compound Betamethasone for Resistant Alopecia Areata: APilot Study.

BACKGROUND: Alopecia areata (AA), an autoimmune disorder characterized by hair loss, can be particularly difficult to manage when patients do not respond to standard therapeutic approaches such as topical or injectable corticosteroids, contact immunotherapy, and systemic treatments. In instances where these conventional therapies prove ineffective, alternative or adjunctive treatments are sought. Concentrated growth factor (CGF) and microneedling (MN)-assisted drug delivery are promising methods for the treatment of different dermatological diseases. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to assess the practical benefits and the safety aspects of utilizing a dual treatment approach involving CGF and MN-assisted compound betamethasone for patients suffering from resistant AA that are unresponsive to conventional medical interventions. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This retrospective study was based on evaluations of seven patients with refractory AA treated with CGF and MN-assisted compound betamethasone from July 2021 to December 2023. The efficacy of treatment was assessed by extents of hair regrowth percentages of involved areas. RESULTS: Among the seven enrolled patients with refractory AA, a notable outcome was observed where one patient (14.3%) achieved a regrowth of hair by over 50%, while six patients (85.7%) exhibited complete recovery without any systemic or local adverse effects. Furthermore, the difference in SALT scores between baseline, and the final visit for all patients was found to be statistically significant, substantiating the therapeutic efficacy of the intervention employed. CONCLUSION: The present study demonstrated that the synergistic application of CGF in conjunction with MN-assisted compound betamethasone may constitute a promising and well-tolerated therapeutic modality for refractory AA, offering a potentially efficacious and safe treatment alternative.

Evaluating the efficacy of local anesthetic techniques during scalp microneedling.

INTRODUCTION: An increasing interest in minimally invasive procedures hassled to a demand for an effective local anesthetic algorithm. The scalp presents a challenge in achieving effective anesthesia due to the presence of hair shafts. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of different methods during a microneedling procedure, including 25 mg lidocaine and 25 mg prilocaine cream, skin spray with 10% lidocaine, and cold gel compresses. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Sixty-two men aged between 20 and 50 years underwent three microneedling treatments, each using a different method of anesthesia. The treatment area was divided into two equal parts, with one part exposed to a specific anesthetic method. Patients were asked to rate their pain on a 0-10 verbal analog scale. An attempt was made to objectify the results using algometry. RESULTS: A negative correlation was observed between the algometry results and the VAS score after the application of the cream and cold compresses. DISCUSSION: When choosing monotherapy, it is recommended to use cold gel compresses for scalp microneedling after considering the advantages and disadvantages of different methods.

A Comparative Analysis of the Advances in Scar Reduction: Techniques, Technologies, and Efficacy in Plastic Surgery.

The study provides a comprehensive analysis of the latest methodologies and treatments aimed at improving scar management. Scar formation results from the replacement of normal skin with fibroblasts, leading to a structured unidirectional collagen bundle, as opposed to the collagen sheet matrix found in healthy skin. This review categorizes scars into hypertrophic scars and keloids, each with distinct pathophysiological characteristics. It highlights the importance of consistent scar assessment using scales such as the Vancouver Scar Scale and the Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale, emphasizing the need for standardized evaluation methods. The study systematically reviews various scar management techniques, ranging from traditional surgical methods to innovative treatments. Conventional approaches such as pressure garments and silicone gel sheeting are explored, noting their roles in maintaining hydration and occlusion. The efficacy of intralesional corticosteroid injections and laser therapies is discussed, with particular attention given to their combined use for optimal outcomes. The review also covers advanced techniques such as microneedling, platelet-rich plasma therapy, and stem cell-based treatments, detailing their mechanisms and potential benefits in scar remodelling. Additionally, the study underscores the emerging role of botulinum toxin A in both preventive and corrective scar treatments, offering promising results in reducing movement-induced scar exaggeration. The systematic review includes a thorough examination of existing literature, clinical trials, and meta-analyses to evaluate the effectiveness of these interventions. It concludes by calling for further research to refine these techniques and enhance their application in clinical practice, aiming to achieve better aesthetic and functional outcomes for patients with scars.

Comparing the efficacy and safety of microneedling and its combination with other treatments in patients with acne scars: a network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

This study aimed to analyze the efficacy and safety of microneedling (MN), both alone and in combination with other treatments, to refine the approach for treating acne scars using MN. We systematically searched Pubmed, Cochrane Library, Embase, and Web of Science for randomized controlled trials examining MN or its combinations in patients with acne scars. All statistical analyses were performed using Stata 18 software. A total of 24 studies involving 1546 participants were included. The analysis revealed that MN combined with chemical peels (CP) exhibited the best results in terms of degree of improvement, patient satisfaction, and treatment efficacy compared to other treatments examined, including MN alone, MN with hyaluronic acid (HA), MN with botulinum toxin­A (TA), MN with platelet-rich plasma (PRP), PRP alone, CP, and laser therapy. The results for MN combined with additional treatments were obviously better than for MN alone. Side effects such as erythema, pain, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation showed no significant differences across all treatments assessed.

Physical Treatments and Therapies for Androgenetic Alopecia.

Androgenetic alopecia, the most common cause of hair loss affecting both men and women, is typically treated using pharmaceutical options, such as minoxidil and finasteride. While these medications work for many individuals, they are not suitable options for all. To date, the only non-pharmaceutical option that the United States Food and Drug Administration has cleared as a treatment for androgenetic alopecia is low-level laser therapy (LLLT). Numerous clinical trials utilizing LLLT devices of various types are available. However, a myriad of other physical treatments for this form of hair loss have been reported in the literature. This review evaluated the effectiveness of microneedling, pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) therapy, low-level laser therapy (LLLT), fractional laser therapy, and nonablative laser therapy for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia (AGA). It also explores the potential of multimodal treatments combining these physical therapies. The majority of evidence in the literature supports LLLT as a physical therapy for androgenetic alopecia. However, other physical treatments, such as nonablative laser treatments, and multimodal approaches, such as PEMF-LLLT, seem to have the potential to be equally or more promising and merit further exploration.

Subcision with platelet-rich plasma and microneedling versus subcision with saline and micro-needling in posttraumatic scars.

BACKGROUND: In treating post-traumatic scars, this study compared the safety and effectiveness of combined subcision with saline and microneedling versus combined subcision with platelet-rich plasma and microneedling. Combined subcision with saline and microneedling or combined subcision with platelet-rich plasma and microneedling were used to treat 36 consecutive individuals with post-traumatic scarring. The Modified Manchester score was used to assess texture change, pigmentation, and surface distortion changes. Each change was given a score between 1 and 4. A lower score (range: 3-12) indicates a better result. The mean of the three individual scores was determined. For best outcomes, each patient needed four treatment sessions for each scar, with a one-month follow-up period following the final treatment. The three variables in group B had mean scores of 1.4 ± 0.5, 2 ± 0.8, and 2.2 ± 0.9, respectively, for texture change, pigmentation, and surface distortion. With a mean score of 1.4 ± 0.5, texture change had the best response out of the three variables we evaluated. The investigator determined that the mean improvement score for patients in group B's overall appearance was 5.61 ± 1.19. The study has shown that the combination of subcision with platelet-rich plasma, and microneedling appears to be a promising treatment for posttraumatic scars due to its low risk and high efficacy. Our findings suggest that this is a safe method for treating posttraumatic scars, with few side effects and a low chance of recurrence. IRB LOCAL APPROVAL NUMBER: 04-2023-300279. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRY: NCT06135480.

The effect of topical tranexamic acid with micro-needling and micro-needling alone in treatment of macular amyloidosis.

BACKGROUND: Macular amyloidosis is a form of primary localized cutaneous amyloidosis presented by pruritic pigmented macules in rippled or reticulate pattern. The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of using topical tranexamic acid with micro-needling comparing to micro-needling alone in patients with macular amyloidosis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Patients with bilaterally located macular amyloidosis on trunk or upper extremities were recruited in this trial. The skin lesions in all patients were divided into two parts which were randomly assigned to the group of treatment with micro-needling plus tranexamic acid and the group of micro-needling alone. There were four sessions of treatment with 2 weeks interval. The percentage of improvement in pigmentation (based on photographs and dermoscopy) and rippling of each group was determined by three blinded dermatologists. The level of patient satisfaction and reduction of pruritus was measured by a questionnaire and defined as a percentage. RESULTS: Twenty females were enrolled in this study. The mean (SD) patients' age was 39.7 (±10.13) years. Both groups showed improvement in pigmentation based on images, dermoscopy, and rippling pattern. Patients' satisfaction was 46.5% in tranexamic acid group and 47.5% in micro-needling alone. Nevertheless, there was no significant difference between both groups (p value >0.05). Interestingly, the pruritus improved 61.66% after four sessions of treatment in both groups. CONCLUSION: Micro-needling is a suitable modality for decreasing pruritus and pigmentation in macular amyloidosis. However, topical application of tranexamic acid does not lead to additional improvement.

Review of laser and energy-based devices to treat rosacea in skin of color.

The prevalence of rosacea in skin of color (SOC) populations is estimated to be as high as 10% in some countries. Traditionally, intense pulsed light (IPL) and pulsed dye laser (PDL) have been the laser and energy-based devices (EBDs) used to treat rosacea. However, not all laser and EBDs are safe for SOC (Fitzpatrick skin types IV-VI) due to increased absorption of energy in pigmented skin and increased risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and scarring. This review summarizes the use of the top seven laser and EBDs for treating rosacea in SOC.

Fractional CO2 Laser Versus Microneedling Combined with Narrowband Ultraviolet and Topical Steroid for Treating Non-Segmental Vitiligo in Treatment-Resistant Localizations: A Comparative Randomized Clinical Trial Study.

Introduction: Vitiligo poses a significant challenge, particularly in treatment-resistant areas such as acral regions. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of combining fractional CO2 laser and microneedling with conventional therapies for non-segmental vitiligo in resistant areas. Methods: A randomized clinical trial with a paired design was conducted on 84 individuals with non-segmental vitiligo and treatment-resistant lesions. Participants in two separate groups received various combinations of interventions, including narrowband ultraviolet B (NB-UVB) and topical steroid (Clobetasol ointment) as conventional treatments, with fractional CO2 laser or microneedling as add-ons for four symmetrical treatment-resistant lesions. The treatment duration was 16 weeks, followed by observation until six months post-intervention for each patient, and it focused on assessing the percentage of repigmentation, safety, patient satisfaction, and potential adverse effects. Results: The results of the study revealed a significant difference in average efficacy, with treatments involving fractional CO2 laser and microneedling compared with other interventions without them showing a higher percentage of repigmentation. No notable distinction in repigmentation patterns was observed, except for slightly higher marginal repigmentation with microneedling. Side effects, including pain, burning sensation, and erythema, were more frequent, with no significant difference between the groups. Itching and crusting had a significant difference in the two groups. Patient satisfaction levels were comparable, with the first group slightly more than the second. Conclusion: In conclusion, combining NB-UVB and topical steroid therapies with the fractional CO2 laser or microneedling seems to be effective for vitiligo treatment in resistant areas. Attention to variations in patients' characteristics and specific body locations is necessary when applying these modalities. This study provides valuable insights into novel approaches for managing vitiligo and highlights the potential benefits of these innovative treatments in combination with conventional therapy.

Long-term efficacy of fractional microneedle radiofrequency versus botulinum toxin-A in primary axillary hyperhidrosis: a randomized controlled trial.

Primary axillary hyperhidrosis is an idiopathic disorder that creates severe psycho-social burden due to excessive uncontrolled sweating. Various therapeutic agents have been described, but each has its own limitations. The use of fractional microneedling radiofrequency has emerged lately with promising results. This study aimed to determine the efficacy and safety of fractional microneedle radiofrequency in comparison to Botulinum toxin-A (BT-A) in patients with primary axillary hyperhidrosis. In this randomized controlled clinical trial, 20 patients (40 sides) were randomized to either fractional microneedle radiofrequency (4 sessions at 3-week intervals) or BT-A (single session), where each side received one of the treatment modalities. Efficacy was measured at 3, 6 and 12 months using Minor's starch iodine test, HDSS score, Hqol questionnaire, and patient satisfaction. Fractional microneedle radiofrequency, although showed moderate efficacy, is inferior to BT-A regarding longitudinal efficacy at 12 months, as well as patients' satisfaction. Both treatment modalities showed to be equally safe, but fractional microneedle radiofrequency procedure was substantially more painful. In conclusion, fractional microneedle radiofrequency does not offer a better substitute to BT-A in primary axillary hyperhidrosis. BT-A shows higher efficacy, is less painful, less expensive, and needs a smaller number of sessions.

Efficacy, safety, tolerability and treatment durability of microneedling plus topical tranexamic acid in combination with topical modified Kligman lightening formula for melasma: A four-arm assessor and analyst blinded randomized controlled clinical trial.

BACKGROUND: The challenging management of melasma highlights the inadequacies of conventional therapies and their high risk of recurrence. Integrating microneedling for device-assisted drug delivery with tranexamic acid (TA), recognized for its melanin synthesis inhibition, presents a novel approach that warrants further investigation to fully assess its potential in enhancing melasma treatment efficacy. METHODS: Fifty moderate to severe melasma patients participated in this randomized outcome-assessor-blinded controlled trial. Patients were randomly allocated into two main groups. Group A received a modified Kligman formula on one hemi-face on alternate nights for 2 months (A1) and three sessions of microneedling with 10% topical TA on the other hemi-face at 1-month intervals (A2). Group B used the same modified Kligman formula on both sides of the face, with one side additionally receiving three sessions of microneedling with 4% TA (B1) and the opposite side with 10% TA (B2). Primary outcomes were % Modified Melasma Area and Severity Index (mMASI) and % visual analogue scale (VAS) change during 6 month follow-up. Adverse events including post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) and treatment tolerability were recorded. RESULTS: Compared to baseline, the mean mMASI reduction immediately after the final session was higher in A1, B1, and B2 (56.84%, 50.88%, and 55.87%, respectively) than in A2, which saw only a 13.16% reduction. Efficacy notably declined after the cessation of treatment across all groups. While the efficacy within groups A1, B1, and B2 was comparable, microneedling with 4% or 10% TA combined with the topical modified Kligman formula proved more potent in patients at a lower risk of PIH. Overall, 22% of patients reported PIH, particularly in the A2 group (28% of hemi-faces), with its occurrence significantly associated with treatment during warmer seasons and in darker skin phototypes. Other adverse events were not observed in any patient. Patient satisfaction was highest in groups B1 and B2, where approximately 72% reported 'excellent' satisfaction. The lowest durability rate (16%) was observed in group A2, while the highest (72%) was seen in group B2, comparable with groups A1 and B1. Treatment tolerability was reported 100% in all groups. CONCLUSION: It was found that the modified Kligman formula outperformed microneedling-TA alone. However, with optimal patient selection, particularly targeting those at lower risk for PIH with lighter skin phototypes and scheduling treatments during less-sunny seasons, combining microneedling with 4% or 10% TA and the modified Kligman formula significantly enhanced efficacy and satisfaction rates compared to conventional topical treatment.

Management of androgenic alopecia: a systematic review of the literature.

We aimed to determine the efficacy of the various available oral, topical, and procedural treatment options for hair loss in individuals with androgenic alopecia. Using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, a systematic review of the National Library of Medicine was performed. Overall, 141 unique studies met our inclusion criteria. We demonstrate that many over the counter (e.g. topical minoxidil, supplements, low-level light treatment), prescription (e.g. oral minoxidil, finasteride, dutasteride), and procedural (e.g. platelet-rich plasma, fractionated lasers, hair transplantation) treatments successfully promote hair growth, highlighting the superiority of a multifaceted and individualized approach to management.

Effectiveness of fractional erbium-YAG laser, microneedling, platelet-rich plasma in localized stable vitiligo patients: randomized clinical trial.

Vitiligo is considered an autoimmune disease, and its treatment is challenging. We assessed and compared the effect of fractional erbium:yttrium-aluminum-garnet (Er:YAG) laser-assisted delivery of platelet-rich plasma versus microneedling (Mn) with platelet-rich plasma (PRP) in enhancing skin repigmentation in localized stable vitiligo patients. In total, 40 patients with localized stable vitiligo were selected in a random manner into two similar groups (20 each). Group (A) was subjected to fractional Er:YAG laser combined with platelet-rich plasma and Group (B) was subjected to microneedling combined with platelet-rich plasma. The procedure was repeated every 2 weeks for up to 6 months. Each individual was assessed clinically utilizing Vitiligo Area Scoring Index (VASI). Fractional Er:YAG + PRP group achieved better pigmentation100% (excellent 30%, very good 15%, good 30% and satisfactory 25%) which is comparable to Mn + PRP where 80% of cases demonstrate repigmentation (20% very good, 10% good and 50% mild). When comparing the VASI scores for both groups after therapy to the baseline VASI, there was a statistically significant decrease [p = 0.001 for group(A) and 0.003 for group(B)]. Regarding the treatment side effects, there was significantly (p = 0.048) side effects among cases treated with microneedling group(B) (25%) than those fractional Er:Yag laser therapy group(A) (5%). Both forms of therapy demonstrated induction of repigmentation of vitiligo, but fractional Er:YAG laser efficacy is greater when combined with platelet-rich plasma.Clinical trials.gov identifier: NCT05511493.

Effectiveness of Microneedling Technique Using Olive Oil on the Severity of Gingival Inflammation and Plaque Accumulation: A Randomised Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND: Gingival inflammation, a hallmark of periodontal diseases, serves as a critical focus in oral health research. Characterized by redness, swelling, and bleeding of the gingival tissues, it reflects the body's response to bacterial biofilms accumulating on the tooth surfaces. This inflammatory process, initiated by the interaction between oral bacteria and the host immune system, can lead to a spectrum of periodontal conditions ranging from mild gingivitis to severe periodontitis. Understanding the efficacy of various methods to treat gingival inflammation is essential for refining treatment strategies and enhancing patient satisfaction in the realm of gingival inflammation. AIM: The objective of the study was to evaluate the efficacy of employing the microneedling technique with olive oil on gingival inflammation and plaque accumulation in individuals with gingivitis.  Materials and methods:Twenty-four individuals diagnosed with plaque-induced gingivitis were selected from Saveetha Dental College, Chennai. Participants were randomly assigned to one of two groups: Group A, comprising 12 individuals who received mechanical periodontal treatment only and Group B, consisting of 12 individuals treated with dermapen and topical olive oil. This involved the creation of microholes in the gingival tissue to enhance the concentration and penetration of the oils through the gingival tissues. Post-intervention assessments of gingival and plaque status were conducted using a gingival index and a plaque index at baseline, one, two, and four weeks. Statistical analysis was done using IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, version 23 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY, USA). Intergroup analysis was done using Mann-Whitney test and intra-group analysis was done using Kruskal-Wallis test for all the study parameters. Statistical significance was set at a p-value of less than 0.05. RESULTS: The mean plaque index scores were 2.02 ± 0.12 and 2.29 ± 0.21 in the subgingival scaling and microneedling with olive oil group respectively in baseline. The scores were 1.83 ± 0.29 and 0.57 ± 0.16 in the subgingival scaling and microneedling with olive oil group respectively at the end of four weeks. The results of plaque index scores were statistically significant between the control and the intervened groups at the end of four weeks with a p value of 0.01*. The mean gingival index scores were 2.09 ± 0.16 and 2.37 ± 0.17 in the subgingival scaling and microneedling with olive oil group in the baseline respectively. The scores were 1.88 ± 0.23 and 0.96 ± 0.21 in the subgingival scaling and microneedling with olive oil group respectively at the end of four weeks. The results of gingival index scores were statistically significant between the control and the intervened groups at the end of four weeks with a p value of 0.01*. CONCLUSION: Our research showcased a novel and effective technique, unveiling a significant enhancement in gingival health accompanied by a reduction in both the average gingival index and plaque index.

Energy-Based Devices for the Treatment of Facial Skin Conditions in Skin of Color.

Background: The development of microfocused ultrasound and fractional radiofrequency-based devices has expanded the range of cosmetic treatment options for patients with skin of color. Fractional non-ablative laser treatments can also be safely performed in skin types III-VI with appropriate settings and adjunctive topical treatments. Objective: We sought to review the available literature on the use of energy-based devices for treatment of facial skin conditions in skin types III-VI. Methods: A PubMed search was performed on studies from 2010-2021 assessing safety and efficacy of fractional ablative and non-ablative lasers, radiofrequency, and microfocused ultrasound-based treatments for conditions such as acne scars, melasma, benign pigmented lesions, rhytids, and skin laxity in skin types III-VI. Results: Seven randomized trials, fourteen prospective cohort studies, and six retrospective reviews were included. Combination treatment with fractional radiofrequency and non-ablative laser has demonstrated efficacy in the treatment of acne scars in skin of color with minimal adverse effects. Laser-assisted drug delivery with low-density 1927-nm thulium or diode lasers has been shown to reduce the number of treatments required for significant clearance of melasma as compared with other modalities. Microfocused ultrasound has been shown to safely treat skin laxity in skin of color. Limitations: There is a paucity of studies which include patients with skin type VI, limiting our overall understanding of the safety of these treatments in skin of color. Conclusion: There are numerous available studies demonstrating safety and efficacy of energy-based devices for the treatment of facial skin conditions in skin types III-VI, but the significant variation among their designs, methods of assessment, and study populations highlights the need for larger meta-analyses to further interpret their results.

Effect of Topical 5% 5-Fluorouracil with Microneedling in Vitiligo Patients as an Additional Modality to Standard Treatment at Tertiary Care Hospital.

Background: Vitiligo is an inveterate disease of great aesthetic concern presenting with depigmented macules and patches. It is often incorrigible to medical treatment. Aim: To study the clinical profile of vitiligo patients and evaluate the effect of 5% 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) cream with microneedling. Materials and Methods: This observational analytical study was conducted from November 2019 to July 2021. A total of 33 adult vitiligo patients were treated with oral mini-pulse (dexamethasone) therapy and topical corticosteroid (clobetasol propionate 0.05%). Patient's total number of vitiligo lesions with <10-cm size were counted and half of the lesions were treated with 5-FU + microneedling (Group A), while a remaining number of lesions were not treated with 5-FU + microneedling (Group B). In the case of the odd number of lesions, the total number of lesions minus one was considered and then divided into equal numbers for treatment. The procedure was performed every 2 weeks for 3 months. Clinical improvement was assessed monthly till 6 months by serial clinical photographs and grading scores. Results: Initiation of repigmentation started in the first month in Group A, whereas in Group B, it was seen in the second, which was statistically significant (P < 0.0001). Excellent improvement (>75% repigmentation) was noted in Group A as compared to Group B at the end of 6 months (P < 0.0001). Conclusions: Needling with 5% 5-FU appears to be a simple, safe, and effective treatment in vitiligo. It can be used in poor responders to conventional therapy.

Microneedling with PRP for Acne Scars: A New Tool in Dermatologist Arsenal - A Scoping Review.

Acne scars can greatly impact patient quality of life. While treatment options have included mi- croneedling, the recent addition of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) to this regimen has led to an increased popularity of combination treatment. Here, we aimed to review the efficacy of microneedling and PRP therapies and review the literature on combination treatment for acne scars.

Evaluation of the Efficacy of Platelet-Rich Plasma Injections With and Without Microneedling for Managing Atrophic Facial Acne Scars: A Prospective Comparative Study.

Background and aim The majority of acne has the potential to transform into facial scars, which have a physical and psychological effect on the individual. There are plenty of treatment options to manage such scars. The aim of this study is to assess the comparative effect of the injection of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) alone, with that of the injection of PRP with microneedling, in the reduction of atrophic facial acne scars.  Methods A total of 30 participants were included in this study, divided into two groups (n = 15). Patients in Group I received intradermal injection of PRP only, and Group II included patients receiving intradermal injection of PRP with microneedling. The scar appearance was evaluated at baseline, after one, two, and three months using Goodman Baron's scar scale. The statistics were analysed using the Chi-square and Student's t-tests.  Results Patients in the PRP with microneedling group had lower acne scar scores on the Goodman Baron scale compared to those who received only PRP. The acne scores were statistically significant (p-value < 0.05) in the second and third months of treatment in Group II.  Conclusion The addition of microneedling to PRP has proven to be effective in the reduction of facial acne scars. However, different types of scars require different modalities of treatment, and the final decision lies in the hands of the operator and the requirements of the patients.