Abstract | BACKGROUND: Previous research demonstrated that 1072-nm narrowband laser light is effective in the treatment of cold sores. AIM: To evaluate the efficacy of an over-the-counter cold-sore treatment device (Virulite CS) incorporating 1072-nm light-emitting diodes. METHODS: A randomised, prospective, double-blind, self-reported study was performed to compare the efficacy of at least six 3-min treatments of 1072-nm narrowband light against placebo, in the treatment of herpes labialis. RESULTS: The 1072-nm light-emitting diode device reduced cold-sore healing time to 6.3 days compared with 9.4 days for placebo (P=0.048). The time the cold sore took to form a crust was also reduced from 2.00 days for those treated with 1072-nm light, compared with 2.88 days for placebo (P=0.059) CONCLUSIONS: The significant difference between the mean healing times in the two groups demonstrates that the Virulite CS device is an effective means of treating herpes labialis.
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Authors | G Hargate |
Journal | Clinical and experimental dermatology
(Clin Exp Dermatol)
Vol. 31
Issue 5
Pg. 638-41
(Sep 2006)
ISSN: 0307-6938 [Print] England |
PMID | 16780494
(Publication Type: Journal Article, Randomized Controlled Trial, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't)
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Topics |
- Double-Blind Method
- Herpes Labialis
(therapy)
- Humans
- Phototherapy
(instrumentation, methods)
- Prospective Studies
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