Open AccessHigh intensity focused ultrasound as a potential new modality for the treatment of pigmentary skin disorder
Author(s) -
Choi S. Y.,
Yoo K. H.,
Oh C. T.,
Kwon T. R.,
Choi E. J.,
Seok J.,
Kim B. J.
Publication year - 2016
Publication title -
skin research and technology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.521
H-Index - 69
eISSN - 1600-0846
pISSN - 0909-752X
DOI - 10.1111/srt.12239
Subject(s) - hyperpigmentation , high intensity focused ultrasound , medicine , melanin , dermatology , ultrasound , skin hyperpigmentation , focused ultrasound , irradiation , nuclear medicine , radiology , chemistry , biochemistry , physics , nuclear physics
Background/Purpose The clinical skin tightening benefits of high intensity focused ultrasound ( HIFU ) have been established, but its mechanism of action in pigmented skin disorders remains unknown. We macroscopically and histopathologically investigated dermatological changes after HIFU at different exposure doses in a UVB ‐induced guinea pig model of hyperpigmentation. Methods We applied HIFU irradiation at 0.1 and 0.2 J/cm 2 to UVB ‐induced spotty hyperpigmentation in guinea pig skin. The therapeutic effects of HIFU were judged based on gross appearance using photography, dermoscopy, and chromametry during a period of 3 weeks after HIFU irradiation. Histological assessments were performed using Fontana‐Masson staining 1 day before and 3 weeks after HIFU irradiation. Results Macroscopically, UVB ‐induced hyperpigmentation was significantly reduced 2 weeks after HIFU with 0.2 J/cm 2 , and 3 weeks after HIFU with 0.1 J/cm 2 . Histopathologically, the heavy deposition of melanin in the epidermis induced by UVB exposure was reduced 3 weeks after HIFU irradiation. Conclusion We confirmed that HIFU has a positive effect on UVB ‐induced hyperpigmentation as well as mechanical destructive activity. We suggest that HIFU may be useful as an alternative modality for human patients suffering from skin pigmentary conditions.