The following is a summary of “A Pilot Study of the Safety and Effectiveness of a Novel Device in Subjects With Axillary Hyperhidrosis” published in the November 2022 issue of Dermatologic Surgery by Kaufman, et al.

One-third of adults in the United States experience quality-of-life(QoL). Reductions due to excessive sweating, and 5% have hyperhidrosis. To treat this issue, researchers are creating a one-time-use disposable patch based on cutting-edge targeted alkali thermolysis (TAT) technology. Use a randomized, double-blind, sham-controlled trial to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of the TAT patch in treating hyperhidrosis. 

Adults (n=16) with Hyperhidrosis Disease Severity Scale (HDSS) ratings of 3 or 4 were treated with either an active or sham patch for up to 3 minutes (based on the results of a previously unpublished feasibility study) and then assessed weekly for 6 weeks following treatment. Success was determined mostly by the change in HDSS from weeks 0 to 4. The aims of the study were successfully accomplished. At Week-4, 83% of TAT-treated patients and 0% of sham-treated subjects showed HDSS scores of 1 or 2 (primary effectiveness measure, P=.0032). Also, 67% of those given TAT had a 2% increase in their HDSS scores, but none of those who were given a sham treatment (P=.0123). 

HDSS was connected to a better quality of life. One mildly concerning side effect that lasted for a short time and had no lasting effects was recorded among those who used the TAT patch, so it appears safe. The effectiveness of the TAT patch was confirmed, and it was well tolerated.

Source: journals.lww.com/dermatologicsurgery/Abstract/2022/11000/A_Pilot_Study_of_the_Safety_and_Effectiveness_of_a.17.aspx

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