Portable ultraviolet light A1 light source to treat hypertrophic scar

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Recently, fibrotic diseases such as hypertrophic scar, keloid, and scleroderma have been treated with UV-A1 radiation with encouraging results. However, conventional UV light sources are bulky and expensive. In this study, we aimed to verify the effectiveness of a portable UV-A1 radiation device in treating hypertrophic scars. Materials and methods: A light-emitting diode array that emitted 365 ± 5 nm (UV-A1) was used to irradiate fibroblasts and hypertrophic scar in a rabbit model. Results: In cell cultures, UV-A1 light exposure inhibited post-wound cell migration and reduced the total amount of soluble collagen production in fibroblasts. Type I collagenase production and its activity increased after treatment. On the rabbit ear, UV-A1 light irradiation reduced the thickness of hypertrophic scars, confirming the antifibrotic effect in vivo. Conclusion: These results support the potential of a portable UV-A1 light device in treating hypertrophic scar.

Keywords

• fibrosis
• light-emitting diode
• phototherapy
• scar
• UV-A1