Autologous fibroblasts for treatment of facial rhytids and dermal depressions. A pilot study.
OBJECTIVE
To assess effectiveness of intradermal injections of autologous fibroblasts for the treatment of facial rhytids and dermal depressions.


METHODS
Six-month prospective pilot study. Photographs and silicone molds were taken of a prominent rhytid or dermal depression from each patient prior to treatment and at 6 months after treatment.


METHODS
Specialty clinic in academic medical center.


METHODS
Ten adults (age range, 24-69 years) who each exhibited a prominent rhytid or depressed facial scar.


METHODS
A 3-mm postauricular skin biopsy specimen from each participant was sent to Isolagen Technologies, Inc, laboratories, where a fibroblast cell line was developed. Three injection sessions were performed at 2-week intervals; target areas were the study site as well as behind the ear.


METHODS
Subjective improvement scores were obtained by each patient and 2 clinicians at every follow-up visit. Skin surface topographical features were evaluated with optical profilometry by comparing silicone molds before and after injection. Histological analysis was performed on a biopsy specimen of the postauricular injection site.


RESULTS
Nine of 10 patients noted a 60% to 100% improvement with the treatment; clinicians made similar observations. Size reduction of 10% up to 85% of the study site was demonstrated by optical profilometry for every patient. Microscopically, there was evidence of increased thickness and density of dermal-layer collagen.


CONCLUSIONS
Intradermal injection of autologous fibroblasts may be an effective treatment option for facial rhytids and depressed scars.
Division of Head and Neck Surgery, University of California, Los Angeles, USA.
D
D
Watson
G S
GS
Keller
V
V
Lacombe
P B
PB
Fodor
J
J
Rawnsley
G P
GP
Lask
D000152:Acne Vulgaris / Q000628:therapy; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D002921:Cicatrix / Q000628:therapy*; D004954:Esthetics; D005148:Facial Dermatoses / Q000628:therapy*; D005260:Female; D005347:Fibroblasts / Q000637:transplantation*; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D007271:Injections, Intradermal; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D010865:Pilot Projects; D011446:Prospective Studies; D019651:Plastic Surgery Procedures; D014182:Transplantation, Autologous; D016896:Treatment Outcome