Diode laser hair removal does not interfere with botulinum toxin A treatment against axillary hyperhidrosis

Lasers Surg Med. 2010 Mar;42(3):211-4. doi: 10.1002/lsm.20891.

Abstract

Background and objective: The possible interference of combined laser hair removal and Botulinum toxin A (BoNT/A) injections in the treatment of axillary hyperhidrosis has not previously been explored. In order to examine this potential interference, we assessed the effect of BoNT/A on axillary hyperhidrosis with and without concomitant diode laser axillary hair removal.

Study design/materials and methods: In a prospective, double blind, randomized cross over trial, nine patients suffering from primary axillary hyperhidrosis were laser-treated on one randomly assigned axilla. One week later, both axillas were injected intradermally with BoNT/A (100 MU per axilla). During the same session, the previously untreated axilla was lasered. Axillary sweat rates (in g/5 minutes.) were determined by gravimetry and compared at rest, during mental exercise, and during physical exercise. Additionally, subjective outcome measures were assessed by a visual analogue scale, Dermatology Life Quality Index, and Global Clinical Impression score.

Results: No differences were found regarding the effect of BoNT/A on previously laser-treated and laser co-treated sides over time course for any of the outcome parameters. Sweat production was reduced 3 weeks after BoNT/A treatment by 93.5% at rest, 96.5% during mental exercise, and 67% during physical exercise.

Conclusions: Concomitant laser hair removal does not interfere with BoNT/A treatment on axillary hyperhidrosis.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Randomized Controlled Trial
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Analysis of Variance
  • Axilla
  • Botulinum Toxins, Type A / therapeutic use*
  • Combined Modality Therapy
  • Cross-Over Studies
  • Double-Blind Method
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Hair Removal / methods*
  • Humans
  • Hyperhidrosis / diagnosis
  • Hyperhidrosis / therapy*
  • Injections, Intradermal
  • Lasers, Semiconductor / therapeutic use*
  • Prospective Studies
  • Quality of Life*
  • Risk Assessment
  • Severity of Illness Index
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • Botulinum Toxins, Type A