Linear polarized infrared irradiation using Super Lizer is an effective treatment for multiple-type alopecia areata.
BACKGROUND
Super Lizer trade mark is a linear polarized light instrument, which has been used with good effect in orthopedics and anesthesiology to treat arthralgia and neuralgia with a high output of infrared radiation.


OBJECTIVE
To test Super Lizer trade mark 's efficacy for the treatment of alopecia areata.


METHODS
Fifteen patients over 18 years of age, diagnosed with alopecia areata and displaying symptoms of patchy hair loss, were topically irradiated with infrared radiation using the Super Lizer trade mark. The patients were irradiated intermittently for an interval of 3 min once every week or every 2 weeks.


RESULTS
Seven of 15 (46.7%) of the irradiated areas showed hair regrowth 1.6 months earlier than the nonirradiated areas (chi2 official approval, P = 0.003). With regard to adverse effects caused by Super Lizer trade mark treatment, only one patient complained of a sensation of heat in the irradiated area.


CONCLUSIONS
These findings suggest that Super Lizer trade mark, with its noninvasive properties, is a useful apparatus for the treatment of mild forms of alopecia areata.
Yamazaki
Masashi
M
Department of Dermatology, Juntendo University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan. yamazaki@med.juntendo.ac.jp
Miura
Yuko
Y
Tsuboi
Ryoji
R
Ogawa
Hideoki
H
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000505:Alopecia / Q000532:radiotherapy*; D005260:Female; D006197:Hair / Q000528:radiation effects; D006801:Humans; D007259:Infrared Rays; D028022:Low-Level Light Therapy; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D016896:Treatment Outcome