title: Digital image analysis of microcomedones.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  Developing a technique for quantifying the number and size of follicular casts and microcomedones.
  
  
  BACKGROUND
  There is no human testing that is validated up to now to predict comedogenesis and comedolysis following topical applications of drugs or cosmetics.
  
  
  METHODS
  Evaluations are performed by digital image analysis of cyanoacrylate follicular biopsies. The effects of two topical products are compared.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Microcomedogenesis was disclosed after a 2-month period of application of a cosmetic product aimed at treating acne. Microcomedolysis occurred following usage of a topical preparation containing benzoyl peroxide 5% and miconazole nitrate 2%.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Digital image analysis of skin surface biopsies is a sensitive method documenting microcomedo formation and dissolution.
authors.affiliation: Department of Dermatopathology, University of Liège, Belgium.
authors.forename: G E
authors.initials: GE
authors.lastname: Piérard
authors.forename: C
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Piérard-Franchimont
authors.forename: V
authors.initials: V
authors.lastname: Goffin
mesh_terms: D000152:Acne Vulgaris / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000473:pathology*; D000279:Administration, Cutaneous; D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D001585:Benzoyl Peroxide / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use; D001706:Biopsy; D016022:Case-Control Studies; D003358:Cosmetics / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use; D003487:Cyanoacrylates; D004338:Drug Combinations; D006197:Hair / Q000187:drug effects / Q000473:pathology; D006801:Humans; D007091:Image Processing, Computer-Assisted; D008297:Male; D008825:Miconazole / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use; D012815:Signal Processing, Computer-Assisted; D012867:Skin / Q000187:drug effects / Q000473:pathology; D013997:Time Factors
chemical_list: D003358:Cosmetics; D003487:Cyanoacrylates; D004338:Drug Combinations; D008825:Miconazole; D001585:Benzoyl Peroxide