A randomised double-blind study comparing the effect of 1072-nm light against placebo for the treatment of herpes labialis
Author: Hargate, G.
Source: Clinical & Experimental Dermatology, Volume 31, Number 5, September 2006 , pp. 638-641(4)
Publisher: Blackwell Publishing
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Abstract:
Summary Background. Previous research demonstrated that 1072-nm narrowband laser light is effective in the treatment of cold sores. Aim. To evaluate the efficacy of an over-the-counter cold-sore treatment device (Virulite CS) incorporating 1072-nm light-emitting diodes. Methods. A randomised, prospective, double-blind, self-reported study was performed to compare the efficacy of at least six 3-min treatments of 1072-nm narrowband light against placebo, in the treatment of herpes labialis. Results. The 1072-nm light-emitting diode device reduced cold-sore healing time to 6.3 days compared with 9.4 days for placebo (P = 0.048). The time the cold sore took to form a crust was also reduced from 2.00 days for those treated with 1072-nm light, compared with 2.88 days for placebo (P = 0.059) Conclusions. The significant difference between the mean healing times in the two groups demonstrates that the Virulite CS device is an effective means of treating herpes labialis.Document Type: Research article
DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2230.2006.02191.x
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