A split-neck interventional study to compare the efficacy of Ablative Fractional CO2 laser vs 70% Glycolic acid peel in Acanthosis nigricans

A split-neck interventional study to compare the efficacy of ablative fractional laser vs 70% glycolic acid peel in acanthosis nigricans is to be conducted in patients attending dermatology OPD in Command Hospital Air Force bangalore. Aesthetic concerns become valid when acanthosis nigricans affects the visible areas. Treating it early prevents worsening of the condition.

Randomisation will be done by tossing a coin and following procedure will be done :

 Acanthosis nigricans on one  side of neck will be treated with glycolic acid peel. First coat of the peeling will be applied and the frosting is  expected; if no frosting formed, a second coat will be applied. Sodium bicarbonate application follows to neutralize the peeling effect, and emollient will be advised for patient for 1 week after peeling. Each patient will have three sessions of glycolic acid peel with 2-weeks interval.

  Other side of  neck will be treated  with ablative fractional CO2 laser.

Each patient will have three sessions of fractional CO2 laser , with 2-weeks interval. The parameters will be  atleast of low power (10 J), low density (500 μm), short dwell time (500 μs), and double stacking with a single pass on the affected area. Test area will be performed first to detect side effects to treatment. Post-operatively, ice packs for cooling will be  immediately applied after laser sessions,and the patients will be advised to apply a topical antibiotic with steroid ointment and emollient after the session