Histologic study of depressed acne scars treated with serial high-concentration (95%) trichloroacetic acid.

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

Acne scarring is a common manifestation that remains a therapeutic challenge to dermatologists, dermatologic surgeons, and plastic surgeons. Although multiple therapeutic modalities exist, treatment often remains inadequate. The use of high-concentration (95%) trichloroacetic acid (TCA) applied focally to atrophic acne scars has been described.

OBJECTIVE:

The current study confirms the utility of focal application of 95% TCA to acne scars in addition to a histologic examination of this technique.

METHODS:

Acne scars in three patients were treated with focal 95% TCA by serial application. Wooden applicators were used to apply TCA focally and repeated at 6-week intervals for a total of six treatments. Punch biopsies were performed at baseline and at 1 year postoperatively. Histologic examination was performed with routine hematoxylin/eosin, Masson trichrome, and Verhoeff-van Gieson staining.

RESULTS:

Clinical examination revealed apparent cosmetic improvement in both depth and appearance of acne scars. Patient satisfaction was high. Histologic examination demonstrated a decrease in the depth of acne scars. In addition, increased collagen fibers and fragmentation of elastic fibers were noted. There were no complications from the procedure.

CONCLUSION:

Focal application of high-concentration TCA to atrophic and "ice-pick" acne scars appears to produce clinical improvement. Histologic changes of this technique are described.

• Authors: Anthony Yug, Joshua E Lane, Michael S Howard, David E Kent
• Journal: Dermatologic surgery : official publication for American Society for Dermatologic Surgery [et al.] (Dermatol Surg) Vol. 32 Issue 8 Pg. 985-90; discussion 990 (Aug 2006) ISSN: 1076-0512 [Print] United States
• PMID: 16918559 (Publication Type: Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Trichloroacetic Acid

Topics

• Acne Vulgaris (complications)
• Administration, Topical
• Adult
• Chemexfoliation
• Cicatrix (drug therapy, etiology, pathology)
• Female
• Humans
• Male
• Patient Satisfaction
• Treatment Outcome
• Trichloroacetic Acid (administration & dosage, therapeutic use)