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.
Watson
D
D
Division of Head and Neck Surgery, University of California, Los Angeles, USA.
Keller
G S
GS
Lacombe
V
V
Fodor
P B
PB
Rawnsley
J
J
Lask
G P
GP
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