Background and ObjectivesLow level laser (light) therapy (LLLT) has been demonstrated to promote hair growth in males. A double-blind randomized controlled trial was undertaken to define the safety and physiologic effects of LLLT on females with androgenic alopecia.MethodsForty-seven females (18–60 years old, Fitzpatrick I–IV, and Ludwig–Savin Baldness Scale I-2, I-3, I-4, II-1, II-2 baldness patterns) were recruited. A transition zone scalp site was selected; hairs were trimmed to 3 mm height; the area was tattooed and photographed. The active group received a “TOPHAT655” unit containing 21, 5 mW diode lasers (655 ± 5 nm) and 30 LEDS (655 ± 20 nm), in a bicycle-helmet like apparatus. The placebo group unit appeared identical, containing incandescent red lights. Patients treated at home every other day × 16 weeks (60 treatments, 67 J/cm2 irradiance/25 minute treatment, 2.9 J dose), with follow up and photography at 16 weeks. A masked 2.85 cm2 photographic area was evaluated by another blinded investigator. The primary endpoint was the percent increase in hair counts from baseline.ResultsForty-two patients completed the study (24 active, 18 sham). No adverse events or side effects were reported. Baseline hair counts were 228.2 ± 133.4 (N = 18) in the sham and 209.6 ± 118.5 (N = 24) in the active group (P = 0.642). Post Treatment hair counts were 252.1 ± 143.3 (N = 18) in the sham group and 309.9 ± 166.6 (N = 24) in the active group (P = 0.235). The change in hair counts over baseline was 23.9 ± 30.1 (N = 18) in the sham group and 100.3 ± 53.4 (N = 24) in the active group (P < 0.0001). The percent hair increase over the duration of the study was 11.05 ± 48.30 (N = 18) for the sham group and 48.07 ± 17.61 (N = 24) for the active group (P < 0.001). This demonstrates a 37% increase in hair growth in the active treatment group as compared to the placebo group.ConclusionsLLLT of the scalp at 655 nm significantly improved hair counts in women with androgenetic alopecia at a rate similar to that observed in males using the same parameters. Lasers Surg. Med. 46:601–607, 2014. © 2014 The Authors. Lasers in Surgery and Medicine published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Radiance FN offers a new alternative as a deep soft tissue filler. Aesthetic correction was immediate with little downtime. Patient satisfaction was high with minimal side effects. Lip nodularity was the main complication. Correction in all patients has persisted to date, with our longest follow-up being 6 months.

Three cases of the classical form of lymphangioma circumscriptum are described to illustrate the varied clinical manifestations of these lesions. The anatomy and physiology of cutaneous lymphangiomas are reviewed and their classification is clarified as a guide to their management. Treatment was sought by these patients in order to alleviate complaints of copious transudate of lymphatic fluid and chronic relapsing cellulitis. All three were treated with carbon dioxide laser vaporization with good to excellent cosmetic results and complete resolution of their symptoms. Carbon dioxide laser vaporization may be a useful alternative to frequently unsuccessful traditional surgical forms of therapy for selective cases of classical lymphangioma circumscriptum.

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A B S T R A C T Short-term effects of cholic acid ingestion on hepatic accumulation, fecal excretion, and blood levels of protoporphyrin were studied in vivo in griseofulvin-induced protoporphyric mice. Experimental mice that received feed with 2% griseofulvin and 0.5% cholic acid were compared with control mice that received feed with 2% griseofulvin for 4 wk. Five mice from each group were assessed each week for liver and blood porphyrin levels. Fecal protoporphyrin was compared weekly in the total pooled output of each population. Mean protoporphyrin levels were significantly lower for liver (P < 0.0001), erythrocytes (P < 0.05), and plasma (P < 0.05), and higher for feces (P < 0.001) for the mice that were fed cholic acid. Microscopic protoporphyrin deposits, inflammation, necrosis, and dysplasia were more severe in livers of control mice. A second experimental design compared four regimens in the feed given to all mice after 1-wk induction with 2% griseofulvin: (a) 0.5% cholic acid, (b) no adulterant, (c) 2% griseofulvin and 0.5% cholic acid, and (d) 2% griseofulvin. No difference in protoporphyrin removal from livers of mice in groups 1 and 2 was observed after 1 and 2 wk of these regimens. The apparent reduction in hepatic protoporphyrin content in mice of group 3 as compared with group 4 at weeks 2 and 3 was not significant at P < 0.05.These data suggest that in selected circumstances, Drs. Sklar and Goldsman participated in these studies during student research elective periods at Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons. Address all correspondence to Dr. Poh-Fitzpatrick.