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Dermal scatter reduction in human skin: a method using controlled application of glycerol
Matthew A Fox1, Dayna G Diven, Karen Sra
1BioTex, Inc., Houston, Texas 77054, USA.
Background And Objective:
Previous studies in a hairless Guinea pig model showed that transdermal application of glycerol effected a temporary reduction in dermal scatter of light. This study focuses on the application of this protocol on human patients.
Study Design/Materials And Methods:
After stratum corneal removal, glycerol was applied to human subjects using a low pressure transdermal application device. Optical coherence tomography imaging showed increased intensity of radiation reaching deeper regions in the skin and photographs showed enhanced visualization of dermal structures.
Results/Conclusion:
Topically applied glycerol increased light penetration of in vivo corneal-stripped skin. This minimally invasive approach to temporary dermal scatter reduction has the potential to improve the efficacy of light-based diagnostic or therapeutic devices.

