Intense Pulsed Light Research Articles

Comparative Analysis of Intense Pulsed Light Therapy in Patients with Meibomian Gland Dysfunction, with and Without Glaucoma Medication

Background: This study assessed the efficacy of intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy for treating meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), a key contributor to evaporative dry eye disease (DED), by comparing outcomes in patients with idiopathic MGD versus those with MGD induced by glaucoma medications. Methods: In a retrospective analysis of 45 patients, divided into groups based on glaucoma medication use (20 patients) and non-use (25 patients), all underwent four IPL sessions combined with meibomian gland expression (MGX) at 3-week intervals. Key metrics evaluated included Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) scores, tear breakup time (TBUT), Schirmer I test scores, and meibography scores, pre- and post-treatment. Results: Significant improvements were observed in both groups across all parameters post-treatment, indicating enhanced tear film stability and meibomian gland function. The non-glaucoma group showed slightly greater improvements, suggesting the potential impact of glaucoma medications on MGD management. Conclusions: These findings underscore IPL therapy’s effectiveness in improving DED symptoms and meibomian gland function, highlighting its utility as a treatment option for patients with MGD, including those on glaucoma medications.

Sintering of Copper Nanoparticles using Intense Pulsed Light for screen-printed films on flexible substrate

Abstract Rapid growth in applications involving large area flexible electronics has led to wide adoption of the technique of sintering printed films using intense pulsed light (IPL) due to its pulse mode operation and ability to reach high sintering temperatures without affecting the underlying substrate significantly. We study sintering mechanisms of screen-printed thin films of copper nanoparticles on polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic substrate by varying irradiance energy over a wide range to monitor conductivity and associated microstructure changes. We obtain optimized parameters which indicate existence of a sharp threshold irradiance energy to kickstart sintering, and two distinct regimes beyond that. The low temperature regime has a high energy barrier while the high temperature regime has a substantially reduced energy barrier with change of phase due to local melting.

Piezoelectric dispenser printing and intense pulse light sintering of AgNW/PEDOT:PSS hybrid transparent conductive films.

A hybrid transparent conductive films (TCFs) combining silver nanowires (AgNWs) and poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS) was fabricated using a piezoelectric dispenser printing method. The innovation lies in optimizing the ink composition and employing intense pulsed light (IPL) sintering to enhance the TCF's performance. The optimized AgNW/PEDOT:PSS mixture, with an 8:2 ratio, achieved a figure of merit (FOM) of 28.05 × 10⁻³/Ω, corresponding to a sheet resistance of 9.93 Ω/sq. and a transmittance of 88.0%. This represents a significant improvement over the pre-sintering FOM of 24.09 × 10⁻³/Ω. Additionally, the hybrid TCFs exhibited outstanding structural stability, maintaining functionality after 7000 mechanical bending cycles. The results enable applications in flexible optoelectronic devices, and highlight the potential of this method to produce high-performance, flexible, and durable transparent electrodes, advancing the development of next-generation optoelectronic devices.

Evaluation of electrophotobiomodulation as a recent tool in the armamentarium of treatment of fingertip injuries

BackgroundTraditional reconstructive options of fingertip injuries are technically difficult, usually need donor site skin grafting, leave visible scars, and need a protracted period of finger immobilization resulting in joint stiffness. Electro-photobiomodulation (EPBM), is the process of combining intense pulsed light and radiofrequency to modify tissues to help the body heal itself, lower inflammation, and promote wound healing.Patients and methodsThis study included 60 patients presented with fingertip injuries. Patients were randomly divided into two groups. Group 1 includes patients who were treated by EPBM. Group 2 includes patients who were treated by cross finger flap (CFF). Six months after complete healing, evaluation was performed for aesthetic and functional outcome and patient satisfaction.ResultsCompared to group 2 patients, group 1 patients had statistically significant better sensory outcome, better total active motion of affected digits, grip strength, patient satisfaction, healing time, and plastic surgeon general aesthetic evaluation and also, they had statistically significant less adverse events and cold intolerance with absent donor site pain and deformity.ConclusionEPBM is safe and effective treatment of fingertip injuries which shortens the healing time, produces the best aesthetic and functional result while avoiding donor site morbidity of the traditional reconstructive options.

A study to determine the efficacy of intense pulse light in vascular mode for topical steroid damaged facies

Objectives: Misuse of topical corticosteroids on the face has gradually evolved over the years and has now reached phenomenal proportions on account of easy availability, widespread misinformation, and the fairness craze sweeping across the land. Topical steroid-damaged/dependent facies (TSDFs) may present with diffuse erythema, telangiectasia, papules, and atrophy. Current modalities used for the management of TSDF, such as topical tacrolimus and oral antibiotics, have shown a variable response. Intense pulsed light (IPL) systems are economical, have a higher safety margin, and are widely available. The goal of treating vascular lesions with IPL is to raise blood vessel temperature high enough to cause coagulation, leading to destruction and healing with fibrosis. In our study, we exploit these properties of IPL for the management of TSDF. Material and Methods: A total of 15 patients of TSDF were recruited and were treated with three sessions of IPL treatments (vascular mode) 3 weeks apart and were assessed based on a clinical score for TSDF, visual analog scale (VAS) for erythema assessed by the physician and patient at the end of 9 weeks. Results: There was a significant response with a reduction in clinical score of 5.4 points (P > 0.001) and a reduction in physician and patient-assessed VAS for erythema of 3.47 and 3.73, respectively. Conclusion: There is a scarcity of data regarding the efficacy of various treatment modalities for TSDF. Our study establishes IPL (vascular mode) as an innovative emerging modality of treatment.

Combinations of Energy-based Devices plus isotretinoin for management of acne and acne scars: A systematic review.

A 6-month interval between systemic isotretinoin (ISO) and the initiation of energy-based interventions has been recommended, due to concerns about keloid formation and delayed wound healing. While this postponement goes against the current trend of early intervention for acne scarring. This systematic review evaluates the efficacy, safety, and patient satisfaction of combinations of ISO with energy-based devices (EBD). PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were comprehensively searched up to April 2023 according to PRISMA guidelines. Two independent reviewers screened the titles and abstracts to select articles. The quality of the literature was assessed for each study design. A total of 16 studies addressing the efficacy and safety of energy-based modalities combined with ISO were identified, including six randomized controlled trials (RCTs), two case series, seven cohort studies, and one case report. ISO combinations with intense pulsed light (IPL), fractional ablative CO2 laser, pulsed dye laser (PDL), non-ablative fractional laser (NAFL) and fractional microneedle radiofrequency (FMRF) have been tested for improving acne severity, acne scarring and erythema. The current evidence does not justify delaying the use of EBDs for patients who have recently undergone or are currently receiving ISO treatment. Evidence-based treatments such as PDL, NAFL, and FMRF etc. are suggested relatively safe and effective in treating acne and acne scarring.

Devices for treatment of nail psoriasis.

Nail psoriasis (NP) affects a significant proportion of cutaneous psoriasis patients, often leading to functional impairment and psychosocial distress. Despite available treatment options, challenges persist in achieving efficacy and with drug delivery, prompting investigation into novel therapeutic devices. A literature search was performed using the PubMed database for devices and lasers for NP on 17 October 2023 using the following search terms: device OR laser AND "nail psoriasis." Twenty-two articles were included describing treatment with pulsed dye laser, fractional carbon dioxide (CO<inf>2</inf>) laser, long-pulsed Nd:YAG laser, excimer laser, photodynamic therapy, intense pulsed light, and microneedling device. While some recent studies on use of therapeutic devices have shown promising results for NP treatment, current evidence supports an algorithmic approach including topical therapies, intralesional kenalog injections, and systemic therapies, depending on number of nails affected, presence of psoriatic arthritis, cutaneous psoriasis, comorbidities, and effect on quality of life. Laser therapy, although promising, requires further validation through extensive randomized trials before its inclusion in treatment regimens. These exploratory findings highlight emerging therapies that may expand the spectrum of options available. Use of lasers for NP treatment could provide dermatologists with a broader arsenal for customizing treatment plans that address individual patient needs, taking into account comfort, cost, and compliance to enhance overall patient outcomes.

Dermatologic Procedures for the Treatment of Seborrheic Dermatitis.

This paper examines alternative procedural interventions for Seborrheic Dermatitis (SD), aiming to offer clinicians more treatment options and encourage further research. A search was conducted on PubMed using specific search terms related to SD and various dermatological procedures. Studies in English, focusing on SD in human patients, and in-office treatments were included. Data were analyzed for procedure type, effectiveness, and side effects. Nine studies were reviewed, covering phototherapy, indole-3-acetic acid photodynamic therapy (IAA-PDT), Picosecond Nd:YAG laser, botulinum toxin (BoNT) injections, triamcinolone injections, hair growth factor therapy, and precision cryotherapy. Most showed significant efficacy in small cohorts with high patient satisfaction. Hair growth factor therapy had long-term benefits, while narrow-band ultraviolet B phototherapy showed relapse within one month. Intense pulsed light with supramolecular salicylic acid, IAA-PDT, and laser therapy reduced sebum output and Malassezia furfur. Triamcinolone injections were effective against SD's immunological aspects. Hair growth factor therapy and precision cryotherapy have been successfully used to treat scalp SD. The role of BoNT in SD is still being explored; however, current evidence does not support its use. Limited data reveal the need for further research on dermatological procedures for SD. These methods show promise for better patient compliance but face challenges such as cost, variable effectiveness, and unknown long-term safety. Future research should focus on protocol standardization and comprehensive evaluation of long-term outcomes. J Drugs Dermatol. 2024;23(10):819-824. doi:10.36849/JDD.8116.

Efficacy of combined doxycycline and intense pulsed light therapy for the management of intractable recurrent chalazion.

Management of chalazion, characterized by noninfectious chronic granulomatous inflammation of the meibomian glands (MGs), remains challenging in ophthalmic practice, particularly because of its propensity for recurrence even after surgical intervention. This study aimed to evaluate the combined efficacy of doxycycline and intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy for treating intractable recurrent chalazion, focusing on reducing recurrence rates and improving MG status. This retrospective study included patients with intractable recurrent chalazion refractory to conventional treatments including surgical intervention and antibiotics. All patients were treated with a combination of doxycycline and IPL therapy. Clinical assessments included best-corrected visual activity, intraocular pressure, and MG evaluations using slit-lamp biomicroscopy and Keratograph 5 M topography. The study included 12 patients (5 male and 7 female) with an average age of 36.3 years. Treatment outcomes were categorized as 'success' (83.3%), 'stationary' (8.3%), and 'failure' (8.3%). Significant improvements were noted in the MG expression scores (p = 0.038), MG quality scores (p = 0.045), and lid margin telangiectasia scores (p = 0.002). In addition, significant improvement in meiboscores was observed (p = 0.002). The combination of doxycycline and IPL therapy demonstrated promising efficacy in treating intractable recurrent chalazion, with significant improvements in MG function and reduced recurrence rates. This treatment approach offers a viable alternative for patients with recurrent chalazions, particularly for those who are unresponsive to conventional treatments.

A Comparative study between the efficacy of combined Intense Pulsed Light plus high-intensity focussed ultrasound in the treatment of atrophic and icepick scars.

To investigate the efficiency of high-intensity focussed ultrasound with intense pulsed light in the treatment of atrophic and icepick acne scars. The interventional study was conducted between November 2021 and April 2022 at the Postgraduate Medical Physics Laboratory, Mustansiriyah University, Baghdad, Iraq, and comprised patients with atrophic scars in group A and acne scars in group B. They were treated first with intense pulsed light and then with high-intensity focussed ultrasound. All patients received 4 treatment sessions spread over 4 weeks. Outcome assessment was done using Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale. Data was analysed using SPSS software version 24. Of the 22 patients, 12(55%) were males with mean age 20.75±4.20 years, and 10(45%) were females with mean age 21±2.05 years. The combination technique showed significant outcomes compared to baseline (p<0.05). Atrophic scars exhibited significantly greater improvement compared to icepick scars (p<0.05). There was no significant difference between the overall opinion of the observer (p=0.3549) and the patients (p=0.0956). The high-intensity focussed ultrasound and intense pulsed light techniques used in combination was found to be effective in treating atrophic and icepick scars.

The efficacy of combined Intense pulsed light plus high-intensity focussed ultrasound with two different powers in the treatment of atrophic and Icepick acne scars.

To determine the clinical efficacy and suitable power of high-intensity focussed ultrasound combined with intense pulsed light to treat acne scarring. The prospective study was conducted at the College of Medicine, Mustansiriyah University, Baghdad, Iraq, from September 2020 to March 2021, and comprised patients of either gender with atrophic or icepick scars. They were divided into atrophic scar group A and icepick scar group B. Both groups were first treated with intense pulsed light and then with high-intensity focussed ultrasound using 30J/cm2 and 40J/cm2 power. There were overall 4 sessions with an interval of 4 weeks. The outcome was assessed using the Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale. Data was analysed using SPSS 25. Of the 22 patients with a mean age of 20.86±3.22 years, there were 11patients in group A; 7(70%) females and 4(30%) males with a mean age of 20.5±2.06 years. There were 11patients in group B; 7(70%) males and 4(30%) females with a mean age of 21.27±4.19 years. There was a significant difference between baseline and postintervention scores for both groups (p<0.05), and power 30J/cm2 was significantly better compared to 40J/cm2 (p<0.05). The developing technique using high-intensity focussed ultrasound and intense pulsed light was found to be effective in treating scars with 30J/cm2 power.

Evaluating the role of Demodex infestation and meibomian gland dysfunction in recurrent corneal erosion syndrome.

This investigation aims to observe the effects of demodex infection and meibomian gland function in recurrent corneal erosion syndrome (RCES), as well as the efficacy of intense pulsed light (IPL) in treating RCES. The study enrolled thirty patients diagnosed with RCES (30 eyes) alongside a control group of thirty-one individuals (31 eyes). Both cohorts underwent a series of diagnostic evaluations, including eyelash sampling, Demodex mite enumeration, infrared imaging of the meibomian glands, and blepharolipin scoring. The RCES subjects were further categorized into two subgroups upon stabilization for comparative analysis of treatment outcomes: the RCES-A subgroup received IPL therapy (16 patients), and the RCES-B subgroup was administered medication treatment (14 patients). Post-treatment, all participants were re-evaluated using the initial diagnostic procedures to monitor for recurrence. Preliminary findings indicated significant differences between the RCES and control groups in terms of meibomian gland scores (4 [3.0, 4.0] vs. 2 [1.0, 3.0]), blepharolipin scores (15.5 [11.0, 16.8] vs. 8.0 [5.5, 10.0]), and lid margin scores (3.0 [2.8, 3.0] vs. 2.0 [1.0, 3.0]), with P < 0.01 for all comparisons. Additionally, the Demodex count was significantly higher in the RCES group (8.0 [4.0,9.0]) compared to the control (0 [0, 2]) (Z = - 4.13, P = 0.00), with a Demodex positivity rate of 83.3% in the RCES group versus 38.7% in the control group (χ2 = 7.60, P < 0.01). Post-treatment, the RCES-A subgroup exhibited significant improvements in meibomian gland loss scores, blepharolipin scores, lid margin abnormality scores, and a reduction in Demodex counts (P < 0.01), with a post-treatment Demodex positivity rate of 56.3% (P = 0.11). During the follow-up, the RCES-A subgroup experienced a lower relapse rate compared to the RCES-B subgroup (1 vs. 6 patients). The findings suggest a correlation between meibomian gland dysfunction and Demodex infestation with the incidence of RCES. The application of IPL therapy in combination with meibomian gland massage demonstrates significant potential in enhancing meibomian gland functionality, reducing Demodex counts, and effectively mitigating the recurrence of RCES. Clinical trial registration: https://www.chictr.org.cn/ ChiCTR2000039494 (30/10/2020).

Intense pulsed light-induced millisecond selective heat treatment for high-performance silicon anodes

Silicon, which is gaining prominence as a potential anode material, exhibits long-term cycle stability issues owing to volume changes during cycling. This study presents a meticulously designed Si anode that employs intense pulsed light (IPL) technology to simultaneously reduce carbon additives and construct an effective carbon quantum dot (CQD)-derived binder system. IPL, as a light-material interaction technique, offers a novel approach for selective heat treatment with remarkably short processing durations on the order of milliseconds. By comprehensively considering the geometric structure, optical characteristics, and thermal properties of each electrode component, heat transfer bridge (HTB) materials are introduced to ensure a homogeneous depth-directional heat treatment and to minimize binder decomposition in the IPL process. By employing HTB materials, the binder can reach a controlled target temperature for the condensation reaction between poly (acrylic acid) and the CQDs. Simultaneously, higher heat generation in the conductive carbon than in the binder leads to selective additional carbon reduction. This unique approach provides selective heat treatment, which cannot be achieved using conventional methods, resulting in a Si anode with excellent cyclic stability and rate capability. The versatility of the IPL technology is further demonstrated by applying it to relatively inexpensive Si microparticles.

53194 Sequential facial skin rejuvenation with intense pulsed light and a multiple laser combination in Fitzpatrick skin type II-VI patients: A prospective multicenter analysis

53194 Sequential facial skin rejuvenation with intense pulsed light and a multiple laser combination in Fitzpatrick skin type II-VI patients: A prospective multicenter analysis

Real-World Experience Using a Multi-Modality System using Intense Pulsed Light, Radiofrequency Microneedling, High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound, or Thermal Radiofrequency, 808, HIFU for Skin Rejuvenation Treatment.

Medical aesthetic procedures for facial rejuvenation with laser and energy-based devices (EBDs) are rapidly increasing. The following cases highlight real-life experience using a multi-modality system with various handpieces that combine intense pulsed light (IPL), laser hair removal (808 diode), high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU), radiofrequency microneedling (RFM), and thermal radiofrequency (RF) for antiaging and rejuvenation treatment. Laser and RFM treatments may improve skin conditions by inducing cutaneous changes that remodel the skin matrix. Six physicians who treat patients for skin rejuvenation reported on clinical cases from their practice using a multi-modality system with various handpieces. During the meeting, the advisors discussed 15 cases and agreed to select seven patients with different ages and skin phototypes receiving various treatments for photodamage of the face, neck, and décolleté. The advisors discussed why they selected the case, previous treatment, type of treatment, results, and clinical pearls. Sharing best practices in medical aesthetics using combination treatments on a single multi-modality energy-based device such as laser and MRF for facial, neck, and chest skin may support healthcare providers treating patients for skin rejuvenation to improve clinical outcomes.

Evidence-Based Strategies for Warm Compress Therapy in Meibomian Gland Dysfunction.

Despite promising results from technological therapies like intense pulsed light application, warm compress therapy is a mainstay in meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD). However, applying warm compresses (WC) to the eyelids is palliative rather than curative and not always dispensed with specific instructions. The range of eyelid warming treatments available and lack of clear directives for use creates uncertainty for patients accustomed to explicit dosage information. This report examines data from clinical studies across the past 20years to identify effective protocols for three types of WC-hot towel, microwavable eye mask, and self-heating eye mask (EM). Literature search for studies on WC and MGD published between 2004 and 2023 in English was conducted. Studies wherein hot towel, microwavable EM, and self-heating EM were used in a treatment arm were included and those wherein they served only as control or were used in conjunction with another intervention were excluded. 20 resulting studies were separated into 3 groups: 5 on temperature profiles of WC, 6 with single application of WC, and 9 with repeated applications. Study methods and outcomes were tabulated, and a qualitative review was performed, attending to WC protocol and efficacy, as indicated by measures of tear film, meibomian gland health, and dry eye questionnaires. Data from the aforementioned studies revealed that each method can achieve target eyelid temperature of 40°C. A single application of WC-ranging from 5 to 20min-can significantly improve tear quality, while repeated applications significantly relieve symptoms associated with dry eyes from MGD and, in most studies, significantly improve meibomian gland health. Hot towels, however, require frequent reheating to maintain eyelid temperatures above 40°C, rendering them relatively ineffective in longitudinal studies. Microwavable EM retain heat well across 10min and were found to improve tear break-up time and/or meibomian gland score. Self-heating EM have variable activation times and were typically applied for longer periods, showing benefits akin to microwavable EM in short-term studies. Studies monitoring compliance indicate greater deviation from protocol with higher application frequencies or longer-term use. Evidence suggests superior heat retention and therapeutic effects on specific contributing factors in MGD (such as Demodex) with moist-heat compress. Considering decreased patience adherence to therapy with increased usage frequencies, and balancing needs to provide succinct instructions for various compress types, an advisable strategy is for patients to apply a moist-heat generating EM (microwavable or self-heating) to each eye for at least 10min, prepared according to manufacturer's instructions.

Quintessence of currently approved and upcoming treatments for dry eye disease.

Dry eye disease (DED), also known as dry eye syndrome, is a multifactorial ocular surface disease. The aim of this review is to present the details of currently approved and upcoming treatment options for DED in a nutshell. We conducted a thorough literature search using PubMed and searched US FDA website, clinicaltrials.gov, and data available in public domain for currently approved and upcoming treatment options for DED. Currently, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved medical treatments for treatment of DED include cyclosporine formulations (RESTASIS® [cyclosporine 0.05% ophthalmic emulsion], VEVYE® [cyclosporine 0.1% ophthalmic solution], and CEQUA™ [cyclosporine 0.09% ophthalmic solution]), XIIDRA® (lifitegrast), a leukocyte function-associated antigen-1 (LFA-1)/intracellular adhesion molecule-1(ICAM-1) inhibitor, EYSUVIS™ (loteprednol etabonate ophthalmic suspension 0.25%), a corticosteroid, and MIEBO™ (perfluorohexyloctane ophthalmic solution), a semifluorinated alkane. TYRVAYA™ (varenicline solution nasal spray), a cholinergic agonist, is another formulation approved for the treatment of the signs and symptoms of DED. The medical devices approved for treating DED due to meibomian glands dysfunction (MGD) include Lumenis OptiLight™ (intense pulsed light [IPL] device), TearCare® system, and TearScience™ LipiFlow™ thermal pulsation system. Punctal plugs are another treatment option approved for management of DED. There are hundreds of clinical studies evaluating newer treatments for managing the signs and symptoms. Cyclosporine formulations TJO-087 (cyclosporine A nanoemulsion 0.08%), SCAI-001 eye drops (cyclosporine 0.01%, 0.02%) are being evaluated against RESTASIS® and other approved treatments. The potential treatments being assessed include IC 265, OK-101, PL9643, SYL1001 (tivanisiran), SHJ002, OXERVATE® (cenegermin-bkbj ophthalmic solution 0.002%), HBM9036 (tanfanercept ophthalmic solution), OCS-02 (licaminlimab), MIM-D3 (tavilermide ophthalmic solution 5%), AR-15,512, BRM421, reproxalap, and AZR-MD-001 (selenium sulphide ointment 0.5%). The pathophysiology of DED is complex and multifactorial; there is a need to understand it even deeper. The new treatments and different delivery systems seem promising and provide a hope of effective treatment for DED.

Efficacy and safety of phototherapies for upper lip scars in cleft lip patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Cleft lip is a prevalent congenital developmental defect, and its surgical repair often results in scarring that adversely impacts facial aesthetics, function, and mental health. Numerous studies have examined the efficacy and safety of phototherapy for scar treatment. However, definitive evidence is lacking. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of phototherapies for treating upper lip scars in cleft lip patients. We searched PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, and Web of Science databases using specific search terms. We collected clinical trials on laser or other phototherapy treatments for upper lip scars after cleft lip surgery published up to the end of March 2024. Two researchers independently screened the literature, extracted data, and assessed quality based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. The data were analyzed by using RevMan 5.4 statistical software. A total of 9 studies were included. ① Analysis of the clinical efficacy rate between the control group (routine care) and the intervention group (phototherapy) showed that laser or intense pulsed light (IPL) treatment significantly reduced total VSS scores (P<0.0001). ② Analysis of the Pretest-Posttest cohort showed that total VSS scores were significantly reduced after phototherapy (P<0.00001). ③ Timing of phototherapy intervention analysis: early postoperative phototherapy intervention had a better effect. None of the literature reported permanent complications, nor were there any serious adverse events, only localized temporary erythema or blisters. Phototherapy can effectively improve the total VSS scores of upper lip scars after cleft lip surgery (including skin color, vascular distribution, softness, and thickness) with no apparent adverse reactions or serious complications. Early phototherapy intervention for upper lip scars has a better effect.

The effect of intense pulsed light combined with topical 0.05% Cyclosporin A eyedrops in the treatment of Sjögren’s syndrome related dry eye

ABSTRACT Objectives This study aimed to assess the effectiveness and safety of intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy plus topical 0.05% cyclosporine A (CsA) eye drops to treat Sjögren’s Syndrome-related dry eyes (SS-DE). Research design and methods In this prospective, randomized trial included, 60 individuals with SS-DE symptoms were randomized to receive topical eye drops containing either 0.1% sodium hyaluronate (Group S) or 0.05% CsA (Group C) plus IPL therapy. Before the first treatment (baseline), and at 12, 16, and 20 weeks after treatment commencement, we assessed the best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), the Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) score, the Schirmer I test (SIT), noninvasive tear breakup time (NBUT), corneal fluorescein staining (CFS), meibomian gland (MG) dropout, lid margin abnormality, MG expressibility, and meibum quality. Results Both groups showed significant improvements in the OSDI, NBUT, CFS, MG expressibility, and meibum quality (all p < 0.05). Group C showed a greater increase in OSDI, NBUT, MG expressibility, and meibum quality (all p < 0.05). Moreover, SIT and lid margin abnormalities significantly improved in Group C (both p < 0.05), but not in Group S. Conclusion Treatment with 0.05% CsA eyedrops plus IPL therapy could significantly reduce the issues and physical discomfort of patients with SS-DE. Clinical Trial Registered on 20 July 2021, with the registration number ChiCTR2100049059.

Effects of the Specific Wavelength and Intensity of Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) on Microbial Inactivation

Effects of the Specific Wavelength and Intensity of Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) on Microbial Inactivation