Intradermal drug delivery:
the field of dermatological research by sonophoresis
M. Nino, G. Calabrò , A. Patalano and P. Santoianni
Dept. of Systematic Pathology - Section of Dermatology - University of Naples Federico II
INTRODUCTION
The skin is an important barrier to the penetration of exogenous
substances and a potential route for the transport of
functional active principles.
Several methods have been studied to increase the penetration
for a systemic or a loco-regional effect.
Sonophoresis is the main physical technique that increases
cutaneous penetration of substances. It is based on 20 to 25
KHz ultrasounds that can induce alterations of the horny
barrier through micromechanical, thermal and cavitation
effects.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
This study evaluated the efficacy of low frequency sonophoresis
(LFS) at 25 KHz produced by a sonicator for treatment of
alopecia areata, melasma and solar lentigo.
30 patients affected by alopecia areata were treated for a 3-
month period by 36 applications (three times a week) of
methylprednisolone 0.5% pet. or cyclosporine 0.1% solution
followed by LFS.
48 women with melasma and 48 with solar lentigo were treated
for a 5-week period by 10 applications (twice a week) with a
depigmenting emulsion based on cogic, azelaico and ascorbic
acid and LFS application.
RESULTS
For alopecia areata the results were: a) with
methylprednisolone, 57% partial and 29% total regrowth
(Figg. 1-3); b) with cyclosporine, 33% partial and 34% total
regrowth (Figg. 4-6).
For melasma: 25% partial and 75% complete depigmentation
(Figg. 7-8).
For solar lentigo: 57% partial and 43% total regression (Figg.
9-10).
CONCLUSIONS
The study shows that LFS is a not aggressive technique,
enhances penetration of topic agents obtaining effects at the
level of the epidermis, dermis and appendages (intradermal
delivery), giving good results in the treatment of some
cosmetic skin disorders.
Figg. 4,5,6: Treatment by cyclosporine + LFS: results in a patient. Before treatment (a), after 1-month treatment (b), after 3-month treatment (c).
ba c
Figg. 1,2,3: Treatment by methylprednisolone + LFS: results in a patient. Before treatment (a), after 2-month treatment (b), after 3-month treatment (c).
Alopecia areata
a b c