This study aimed to compare the efficacy of intradermal normal saline versus trichloroacetic acid (TCA) in treating atrophic acne scars. Atrophic acne scars are a common and disfiguring complication, with limited research on the use of normal saline.
Acne vulgaris is a common skin problem affecting adolescents and adults. It is the eighth most common skin disease globally, having a prevalence ranging from 35%-85%, with notable variations across different regions and age groups.A randomized controlled trial was conducted at the Dermatology Department, Sheikh Zayed Hospital, Rahim Yar Khan, from 1st April 2023 to 31st October 2023. 126 patients were enrolled. Scar grading was based on Goodman and Baron's Qualitative Scar Classification. The Observer Scar Assessment Scale (OSAS) was used by dermatologists. Patients rated their acne scars using the Visual Disease Severity Scale. Photographs were taken for comparison. Efficacy was defined as ≥50% improvement in the OSAS.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
NONE
Enrollment
126
Intralesional Saline injected in scars
35%Trichloracetic acid peel was applied to scars monthly for 3 months
Sheikh Zayed Medical College/Hospital
Rahimyarkhan, Punjab Province, Pakistan
Sheikh Zayed Medical College/Hospital
Rahimyarkhan, Punjab Province, Pakistan
Observer Scar Assessment Scale
efficacy was labelled as improvement on observer scar assessment scale by \>50% compared to baseline. Patient's satisfaction was recorded as 'not satisfied' (VAS score of 1-5), 'Satisfied' (VAS score of 6-7), and 'very satisfied' (Vas score of 8-10)
Time frame: clinical assessment will be done monthly for 6 months
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