Microagulhamento e fator de crescimento epidérmico (EGF) como estratégias para o tratamento de cicatrizes de acne

Abstract

Background: Acne is an inflammatory condition that involves increased sebum production, a proliferation of follicular keratinocytes, and bacterial colonization by Propionibacterium acnes. Acne scars are the main disorder complication affecting the quality of life. The microneedling technique is indicated in the treatment of the acne scars and for the application of transdermal drug delivery. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the microneedling technique associated with the epidermal growth factor (EGF) as a drug delivery strategy for improving acne scars. Methods: Thirty patients with acne scars were selected for evaluation in a double-blind randomized clinical trial from quantitative nature. Due to the 2 losses of follow-up and 2 excluded patients, 28 patients finished the experiment. Patients were divided into two groups. Group 1 underwent two microneedling sessions with a 30-day interval as a single intervention treatment strategy, while group 2 underwent two microneedling sessions with the same interval and associated with drug delivery of EGF. The patients were clinically evaluated through the global scale of acne scar idealized by Goodman and Baron (2006), through the multispectral image of the skin condition, and through selfperception questionnaires that included the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) and an adapted version of the Cardiff Acne Disability Index (CADI). The statistical evaluation (Student T-test, SNK test, analysis of variance) was performed by SisVar statistical software (UFLA, 1996). Results: Regarding demographic characteristics, no statistical differences were found to age, sex, and phototype. Same concerning the clinical evaluation, despite the reduction in severity scores. The multispectral analysis of the skin showed porphyrins reduction in group 2 (p = 0.0296). Concerning the skin texture, there was a tendency to increase the average in the treatment group 2, which translates to clinical improvement of the skin. For the other analyzed variables (wrinkles, pores, and spots), the comparison of means had no statistical significance, while the self-perception assessment showed a reduction in the severity scores in DLQI and CADI, for both groups. Conclusion: The microneedling therapy was effective and safe for the acne scars treatment, with minimal side effects and short time recovery. EGF, used in drug delivery, proved to be a promising active adjunct in the treatment of this skin condition.