Trichloroacetic Acid 15% Peel Alone versus in Combination with Microneedling in Patients with Acanthosis Nigricans.

BACKGROUND

Acanthosis nigricans is a common hyperpigmentation disorder with a profound aesthetic impact. The primary concern of most patients is the cosmetic improvement, that is way there is a continuous search for the most effective cosmetic therapeutic option.

METHODS

40 acanthosis nigricans patients were included, lesions are split into equal halves; right side treated with TCA 15% peel and left side was treated with microneedling followed by TCA 15% peel, both sides were treated monthly for three months. Response to treatment was assessed by acanthosis nigricans grade improvement along with the percentage of improvement in texture and pigmentation individually.

RESULTS

There was statistically significant improvement in acanthosis nigricans grade after treatment in both sides. The combination side showed more improvement in terms of texture and pigmentation.

CONCLUSION

Both TCA 15% alone or combined with microneedling were effective in improving acanthosis nigricans with superior results in combination modality.