Leading Florida Dermatologist Launches Study To Evaluate ArteFill For Acne Scars

Main Category: Dermatology
Also Included In: Cosmetic Medicine / Plastic Surgery
Article Date: 03 Dec 2007 - 3:00 PDT

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Leading St. Petersburg, FL - based dermatologist, Dr. James Spencer, announced he is conducting a study to evaluate ArteFill, a non-resorbable dermal filler, for the treatment of acne scars, and other depressed atrophic scars. ArteFill is a non-resorbable dermal filler that is currently approved to treat nasolabial folds, or smile line wrinkles. James M. Spencer, MD, Professor of Clinical Dermatology, Mt. Sinai School of Medicine, is conducting this study to evaluate ArteFill for the cosmetic improvement of scars. He expects to enroll 15 patients by the end of March 2008.

One month after their ArteFill treatment, patients will return for assessment and standardized photographs will be clinically graded by a blinded dermatologist for degree of scar correction. A patient satisfaction survey along with patient photos of the results are part of the current study protocol. These patients will be followed for one year after ArteFill treatment. After study completion, these findings will be submitted and are expected to be published in a peer-reviewed dermatology journal.

"I use temporary fillers in my practice to treat acne scars and other types of scars. Unfortunately, temporary fillers necessitate expensive repeat injections so a permanent dermal filler would be desirable to correct a permanent scar. I'm using ArteFill in my medical practice for smile lines and I can now document the use of ArteFill for acne and other facial scars," said Dr. Spencer.

According to published reports, there are 14 million people that have moderate to severe acne scarring. There are over 5 million people who have previously taken Accutane and generics after being diagnosed with severe acne. Severe recalcitrant acne, or cystic acne is the worst and most painful form of the skin condition, characterized by inflamed lumps that may result in depressed scars. These scars are a major source of concern for patients, and there are currently limited treatment options for this condition.

Dr. Spencer received a research grant from Artes Medical, Inc. (NASDAQ:ARTE) to conduct this study. For more information on Dr. Spencer at Spencer Dermatology and Skin Surgery Center or his study, please visit http://www.spencerdermatology.com.