Background Androgenic alopecia is common, chronic dermatologic disorder. A variety of lasers and light sources appear to be safe and effective in the treatment of AGA. Aims To evaluate the efficacy and safety of 1540‐nm fractional erbium glass laser in the treatment of AGA. Patients/Methods This was an interventional therapeutic study for the treatment of patients with AGA. The patients received 10 sessions with 1540‐nm fractional erbium glass laser at 2‐week intervals. The assessment of the response was done before and at the end of follow‐up period, both objectively (the change in the density of terminal hair and the diameter of the hair shaft) and subjectively (patient satisfaction). Any adverse effects were documented during the study. Results Forty‐seven out of 51 patients completed the study. After 5 months of laser treatment, the density of hair and hair thickness was significantly increased in both males and females (P value .001). Conclusion The 1540‐nm fractional erbium‐glass laser seems to be an effective and safe option for treatment of patients with AGA. The improvement was accomplished in a short period.

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Objective: To determine the changes of Cutaneous sensations that occur after local application of cidir leaves extract in atopic patients and healthy individuals. Methods: Thirty normal individuals and 30 patients with atopic dermatitis participated in the study. The study was conducted in Najaf Teaching Hospital-Najaf in the period between October 2002 and March 2004. The square wave electrical stimulator was used to stimulate fixed spots on the volar aspect of the right forearm before and after the application of cidir leaves extract. The stimulus was increased gradually and the type of cutaneous sensation that occurred was reported. Results: Cidir leaves extract decrease the skin sensitivity both in normal and effectively in atopic patients. The mean stimulus required to induce each one of cutaneous sensation (tingling, pricking, itching and pain) was higher after the application of the cidir leaves extract. The Cutaneous sensation on other hand that induced by the stimulus was milder than before application of the extract. Conclusion: Cidir leaves extract decrease skin sensitivity both in atopic patients and healthy individuals so it can be used as a cooling agent in cases of eczema and pruritus.