Prospective, Open-Label, 18-Month Trial of Calcium Hydroxylapatite (Radiesse) for Facial Soft-Tissue Augmentation in Patients with Human Immunodeficiency Virus-Associated Lipoatrophy: One-Year Durability

The emerging role of biostimulators as an adjunct in facial rejuvenation: A systematic review

INTRODUCTION

Facial aging has long been an area of focus in esthetic surgery. It is the consequence of physiologic and environmental factors, with a trend toward non-surgical modalities. Although volume augmentation has long been a focus of non-surgical facial rejuvenation, there is emerging interest in the use of biostimulators to induce physiologic changes in the skin. This article aimed to provide an overview of this class of therapies.

METHODS

A systematic review regarding the clinical use of biostimulatory agents including platelet-rich plasma (PRP), platelet-rich fibrin (PRF), poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) and calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) in facial rejuvenation was performed using PubMed databases. The protocol was developed following the preferred reporting for items for systematic reviews-protocols guidelines. Included studies matched predetermined criteria according to the employed intervention and outcomes.

RESULTS

The systematic review was performed in September 2023, with the primary search yielding 464 articles. Abstract review resulted in 73 articles of potential relevance. Comprehensive review of the articles and manual reference checks were performed, independently, by 2 authors. This yielded a total of 45 articles that met the inclusion criteria.

CONCLUSIONS

There is an increasing role for non-surgical modalities in facial rejuvenation. Biostimulatory agents may be used as an alternative, or act as an adjunct, to other non-surgical modalities. These agents induce physiologic changes that mitigate facial aging. There is limited, quantifiable data, which fully illustrate the effect in these products. Although these agents are known to illicit inflammatory changes, more controlled studies are needed to better elucidate the biostimulatory capacity of such non-surgical treatments.

A systematic review of Radiesse/calcium hydroxylapatite and carboxymethylcellulose: evidence and recommendations for treatment of the face

Radiesse® is a filler composed of calcium hydroxylapatite microspheres suspended in a carboxymethylcellulose gel (CaHA/CMC). It has robust rheological properties that have been associated with its versatility. CaHA/CMC is employed for both on-label indications of filling wrinkles or lines, volumizing, and contouring of areas as well as off-label indications aiming at biostimulation and skin tightening. However, despite the expanding use of CaHA/CMC, overall evidence and recommendations for treatment are currently lacking. This paper aims to provide an up-to-date overview of CaHA/CMC clinical applications, together with a level of evidence of supporting literature, focusing on the face. Based on the data, CaHA/CMC may be considered a safe and effective treatment option for cheeks, jawline, HIV-related facial lipoatrophy, and nasolabial folds. Treatment of marionette lines, chin, pre-jowl, and corner of the mouth also tends to respond with a high degree of efficacy. Despite the recent trend, guidelines, and safety profile of diluted and hyperdiluted Radiesse® , no randomized controlled trials have been published.

Comparative Clinical and Histomorphologic Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Combined Use of Calcium Hydroxyapatite and Hyaluronic Acid Fillers for Aesthetic Indications

Hyaluronic acid and calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) have been used for in the field of soft tissue augmentation. Both materials have been used in combination to enhance tissue remodeling and provide a more rejuvenated look. Sequential injections of Belotero Volume (CPM-HA V) and CaHA had a relatively greater remodeling effect on one's skin compared with the simultaneous injections of CPM-HA V and CaHA. Simultaneous injection of the studied products is possible from the point of view of safety, but different levels of administration will be more optimal, which will provide a more pronounced remodeling effect on the skin.

Biostimulating fillers and induction of inflammatory pathways: A preclinical investigation of macrophage response to calcium hydroxylapatite and poly-L lactic acid

INTRODUCTION

Initial macrophage response to biostimulatory substances is key in determining the subsequent behavior of fibroblasts and the organization of newly synthesized collagen. Though histological studies suggest that calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) filler initiates a regenerative healing response with collagen and elastin deposition similar to natural, healthy tissue rather than an inflammatory response with fibrosis, the relative activity of macrophages stimulated by CaHA, as well as how this activity compares to that induced by other biostimulatory fillers, has not been explored. The aim of the study is to characterize the in vitro macrophage response to two biostimulory fillers, CaHA and PLLA (poly-L lactic acid), and to evaluate their inflammatory potential.

METHODS

Primary human macrophages were incubated with two dilutions (1:50 and 1:100) of commercially available CaHA or PLLA. After 24 h incubation, an inflammation array was used to screen for the expression of 40 cytokines, released by macrophages. ELISA was used to confirm array results.

RESULTS

Four cytokines were significantly upregulated in M1 macrophages incubated with PLLA compared to both unstimulated controls and CaHA: CCL1 (p < 0.001), TNFRII (p < 0.01), MIP-1α (p < 0.05), and IL-8 (p < 0.001). In M2 macrophages, MIP-1α (p < 0.01) and MIP-1β (p < 0.01) were significantly upregulated by PLLA compared to CaHA and unstimulated controls.

CONCLUSION

Together, these findings indicate that the CaHA mode of action is a non-inflammatory response while PLLA initiates expression of several cytokines known to play a role in inflammation. Our study supports the concept that these two "biostimulatory" fillers follow distinct pathways and should be considered individually with regard to mechanism of action.

The Role of Calcium Hydroxylapatite (Radiesse) as a Regenerative Aesthetic Treatment: A Narrative Review

For decades, a wide variety of natural and synthetic materials have been used to augment human tissue to improve aesthetic outcomes. Dermal fillers are some of the most widely used aesthetic treatments throughout the body. Initially, the primary function of dermal fillers was to restore depleted volume. As biomaterial research has advanced, however, a variety of biostimulatory fillers have become staples in aesthetic medicine. Such fillers often contain a carrying vehicle and a biostimulatory material that induces de novo synthesis of major structural components of the extracellular matrix. One such filler, Radiesse (Merz Aesthetics, Raleigh, NC), is composed of calcium hydroxylapatite microspheres suspended in a carboxymethylcellulose gel. In addition to immediate volumization, Radiesse treatment results in increases of collagen, elastin, vasculature, proteoglycans, and fibroblast populations via a cell-biomaterial-mediated interaction. When injected, Radiesse acts as a cell scaffold and clinically manifests as immediate restoration of depleted volume, improvements in skin quality and appearance, and regeneration of endogenous extracellular matrices. This narrative review contextualizes Radiesse as a regenerative aesthetic treatment, summarizes its unique use cases, reviews its rheological, material, and regenerative properties, and hypothesizes future combination treatments in the age of regenerative aesthetics.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 5

Correction of temporal wasting using calcium hydroxylapatite with integral lidocaine: An underused procedure for enhancing overall facial appearance

BACKGROUND

Hollowing of the temple area is an early sign of aging that is often overlooked, but when corrected, can lead to significant subject and physician satisfaction.

AIMS

To assess physician and subject awareness of the impact of temporal hollowing on appearance and to evaluate treatment satisfaction following injection of calcium hydroxylapatite with integral lidocaine (CaHA(+)).

PATIENTS/METHODS

Subjects with temporal depression grade ≥2 on a validated Temple Hollowing Scale were recruited. CaHA(+) was injected supraperiosteally using a bolus technique. Photographs were taken prior to treatment and 30 days, and graded by three evaluating physicians using the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS) and Temple Hollowing Scale. The same physicians estimated subjects' age before and after treatment. Photographs were graded by patients as part of a satisfaction questionnaire.

RESULTS

The study enrolled 10 subjects aged 32-68 years old. Physician GAIS scores of subject appearance at 1 month were rated as "very much improved" in 80% and "much improved" in 20% of subjects. Temple hollows were graded as 1 after treatment in 90% of subjects. Following blinded review of patients' true ages, estimates for subjects' perceived age were on average 4 years younger than their actual age. Most subjects had not been aware of temple hollowing prior to treatment, but nine out of 10 were very to extremely satisfied with results, and all were willing to repeat treatment. No treatment complications were observed.

CONCLUSION

Treatment of the temple area can have a dramatic aesthetic effect and should not be neglected when addressing facial rejuvenation. CaHA(+) is an effective and well-tolerated product for use in the temple area and is associated with a high degree of subject and physician satisfaction.

Consensus Recommendations for the Use of Hyperdiluted Calcium Hydroxyapatite (Radiesse) as a Face and Body Biostimulatory Agent

Background:

Calcium hydroxyapatite (CaHA) is a well-established collagen stimulator. In recent years, it has been increasingly used in hyperdiluted form as a biostimulatory agent rather than a volumizing filler to improve skin quality and firmness in both facial and corporal areas. However, guidelines on the techniques required to achieve optimal results are still lacking. The objective of this study was to develop a consensus recommendation for the safe and effective use of hyperdiluted CaHA for face and body biostimulation.

Methods:

A team of 10 experts with extensive experience in dermal fillers and biostimulatory treatments for facial and body rejuvenation convened for a live meeting. Consensus was defined as approval by 70%–89% of all participants, whereas agreement of ≥90% denoted strong consensus.

Results:

For most items, the group achieved a majority consensus. Recommendations have been provided for the face, neck, décolletage, buttocks, thighs, arms, abdomen, knees, and elbows with detailed injection techniques, providing information on insertion points, dosages, and volumes for both needle and cannula injections as well as the number of treatment sessions and intervals.

Conclusions:

The expert consensus supports and provides guidance for the use of CaHA as a biostimulatory agent for face and body rejuvenation. However, further clinical studies are necessary to provide physicians with the best evidence for the best treatment practices.

Global Consensus Guidelines for the Injection of Diluted and Hyperdiluted Calcium Hydroxylapatite for Skin Tightening

BACKGROUND

Calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) is approved to correct moderate-to-severe wrinkles and folds and soft-tissue volume loss in the face and hands. More recently, subdermal injection using diluted CaHA has been used to improve skin laxity.

OBJECTIVE

To review evidence for the safe and effective use of diluted CaHA in the face and body and provide best practice recommendations.

METHODS

A global panel of expert aesthetic physicians convened to develop consensus-based guidelines for treating laxity and superficial wrinkles using diluted (ratio of 1:1) and hyperdiluted (≥1:2) CaHA.

RESULTS

Diluted and hyperdiluted CaHA stimulates targeted neocollagenesis in the injection area to improve laxity and skin quality in the mid- and lower face, neck, décolletage, upper arms, abdomen, upper legs, and buttocks. Treatment can be used as an adjunct to volume augmentation or combined with additional modalities for optimal results. Adverse events are related to the injection and include bruising, swelling, mild pain, and induration. In thinner and darker skin, too-superficial injections of less diluted CaHA can lead to more adverse events.

CONCLUSION

This report provides preliminary guidelines for the novel off-label use of CaHA for biostimulation in the face and body. Further trials will provide additional clarity regarding treatment paradigms for optimal outcomes.

Comparing Efficacy and Costs of Four Facial Fillers in Human Immunodeficiency Virus-Associated Lipodystrophy: A Clinical Trial

BACKGROUND

The objective of this study was to evaluate and compare the safety and effectiveness of four different dermal fillers in the treatment of facial lipoatrophy secondary to human immunodeficiency virus.

METHODS

The authors conducted a clinical trial including 147 patients suffering from human immunodeficiency virus-induced lipoatrophy treated with Sculptra (poly-L-lactic acid), Radiesse (calcium hydroxylapatite), Aquamid (polyacrylamide), or autologous fat. Objective and subjective changes were evaluated during a 24-month follow-up. Number of sessions, total volume injected, and overall costs of treatment were also analyzed. A comparative cost-effectiveness analysis of the treatment options was performed.

RESULTS

Objective improvement in facial lipoatrophy, assessed by the surgeon in terms of changes from baseline using the published classification of Fontdevila, was reported in 53 percent of the cases. Patient self-evaluation showed a general improvement after the use of facial fillers. Patients reported being satisfied with the treatment and with the reduced impact of lipodystrophy on their quality of life. Despite the nonsignificant differences observed in the number of sessions and volume, autologous fat showed significantly lower costs than all synthetic fillers (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Surgical treatment of human immunodeficiency virus-associated facial lipoatrophy using dermal fillers is a safe and effective procedure that improves the aesthetic appearance and the quality of life of patients. Permanent fillers and autologous fat achieve the most consistent results over time, with lipofilling being the most cost-effective procedure.

Calcium Hydroxylapatite Combined with Microneedling and Ascorbic Acid is Effective for Treating Stretch Marks

Background:

Stretch marks can have a negative psychological impact on some individuals. Methods are available for treating stretch marks, but high-quality evidence supporting their use is limited. We treat stretch marks using injections of diluted calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA, Radiesse) filler combined with microneedling and topical ascorbic acid. This retrospective study evaluated the effectiveness of this combined therapy.

Methods:

Subjects presented with red (n = 25) or white (n = 10) striae on their buttocks, thighs, knees, abdomen, and breasts. CaHA filler was diluted 1:1 with lidocaine 2% without epinephrine. A maximum of 3.0 mL of filler was injected per patient at all skin depths using a 23G needle. This was immediately followed by microneedling and topical application of 20% ascorbic acid. Microneedling with ascorbic acid was repeated after 1 and 2 months. Skin biopsies were obtained from a patient who later underwent abdominoplasty.

Results:

The mean (±SD) pretreatment Manchester Scar Scale scores were 12.0 (±0.8), decreasing to 7.1 (±1.4) 1 month after the final treatment, indicating improvement in stretch mark appearance (P < 0.001). Subjects were very satisfied (n = 22; 62.9%), satisfied (n = 8; 22.9%), neither satisfied nor dissatisfied (n = 4; 11.4%), or unsatisfied (n = 1; 2.8%) with their treatment results. Analysis revealed a significant correlation between Scar Scale scores and Patient Satisfaction scores (r = 0.483; P = 0.003). Skin biopsies showed increased quantity and quality of collagen and elastin fibers in areas treated with combination therapy. Procedures were well tolerated.

Conclusion:

Combining 1:1 diluted CaHA with microneedling and topical ascorbic is safe and effective for treating stretch marks.

Calcium hydroxylapatite: A review on safety and complications

BACKGROUND

Radiesse^® , or calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA), is a biodegradable, biostimulatory soft tissue filler suitable for deeper folds and wrinkles. In the literature, good results have been documented with the use of CaHA and patient satisfaction scores are high. This study reviews the current literature on safety and complications of CaHA.

METHODS

A literature search in MEDLINE/PubMed electronic database was conducted. A total of 21 articles were included and screened for reports of adverse events (AEs).

RESULTS

Twenty-one peer-reviewed articles, published between 2004 and 2015, were included. A total of 5081 treatments with CaHA were performed on 2779 patients. A total of 173 (3%) AEs were reported. The assessed types of AEs consisted of nodules (n=166, 96%), persistent inflammation/swelling (n=4, 2%), persistent erythema (n=2, 1%), and overcorrection (n=1, 1%).

CONCLUSION

Based on the results in this study, CaHA appears to have a good safety profile. Nodules are by far the most common AE. Of the reported nodules, 49% occurred in "dynamic" areas currently known for having a higher tendency for nodules. Several treatment approaches exist for managing CaHA nodules; however, in most cases, CaHA nodules are not visible and resolve without intervention.

Quality of life outcomes associated with treatment of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) facial lipoatrophy

Facial lipoatrophy (FLA), characterized by a decrease in facial volume, has a high prevalence in patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection treated with long-term highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). The social stigmatization that results from such changes in facial appearance has led some HIV patients to discontinue HAART. The use of fillers is one method of restoring facial volume. A critical outcome of treatment concerns the patient's quality of life (QoL). Although many studies have assessed patient satisfaction, as well as the social and psychological outcomes associated with the correction of HIV FLA, fewer studies have assessed QoL. We reviewed treatment options for HIV FLA with a specific focus on QoL outcomes. Our analysis revealed that the following treatments were associated with improvements in QoL: poly-l-lactic acid; calcium hydroxylapatite; hyaluronic acid; polyacrylamide gel; polyalkylamide gel; polymethylmethacrylate; silicone oil; and autologous fat transfer. The treatment of HIV FLA with these agents appears to improve QoL as assessed by various QoL instruments. Additional studies are required to identify a unifying QoL instrument to effectively assess longitudinal QoL outcomes and to compare treatment modalities.

A systematic review of filler agents for aesthetic treatment of HIV facial lipoatrophy (FLA)

HIV facial lipoatrophy (FLA) is characterized by facial volume loss. HIV FLA affects the facial contours of the cheeks, temples, and orbits, and is associated with social stigma. Although new highly active antiretroviral therapy medications are associated with less severe FLA, the prevalence of HIV FLA among treated individuals exceeds 50%. The goal of our systematic review is to examine published clinical studies involving the use of filler agents for aesthetic treatment of HIV FLA and to provide evidence-based recommendations based on published efficacy and safety data. A systematic review of the published literature was performed on July 1, 2015, on filler agents for aesthetic treatment of HIV FLA. Based on published studies, poly-L-lactic acid is the only filler agent with grade of recommendation: B. Other reviewed filler agents received grade of recommendation: C or D. Poly-L-lactic acid may be best for treatment over temples and cheeks, whereas calcium hydroxylapatite, with a Food and Drug Administration indication of subdermal implantation, may be best used deeply over bone for focal enhancement. Additional long-term randomized controlled trials are necessary to elucidate the advantages and disadvantages of fillers that have different biophysical properties, in conjunction with cost-effectiveness analysis, for treatment of HIV FLA.

Body vectoring technique with Radiesse(®) for tightening of the abdomen, thighs, and brachial zone

Background

The objective of this study was to investigate the efficacy, safety, and subject satisfaction of the calcium hydroxylapatite-based dermal filler Radiesse^® in a novel body vectoring technique to correct skin flaccidity in the thighs, abdomen, and brachial zones.

Methods

Female subjects with self-evaluated flaccidity scores ≥3 on a 6-point scale (0, no flaccidity; 5, very severe flaccidity) in the zones of interest were included. Radiesse was injected according to predesigned vector maps (3 mL per thigh, 1.5 mL per hemiabdomen or brachial zone). Clinical assessments (skin density and thickness) were made by an independent reviewer at an exact position before and 5 weeks after treatment using a cutometer and an ultrascan. Subjects rated skin flaccidity before and 5 weeks after treatment on the 6-point scale and performed a pinch test to self-assess changes in skin thickness. All adverse events were recorded.

Results

Twenty females (aged 28–67 years) were enrolled, contributing 36 treatment zones. Across all zones, 78% of flaccidity measurements improved after treatment. Improvements in skin flaccidity were most common in the thighs (82% of cases). An improvement in skin density versus baseline was observed in the majority across all zones, most frequently in the abdomen (88% of cases). Skin thickness in each zone also improved versus baseline for the majority, most frequently in the thighs (88% of cases). Mean self-assessed flaccidity scores at baseline were 3.6 (thighs), 3.7 (abdomen), and 3.8 (brachial zone), and 2.6, 2.7, and 3.0, respectively, posttreatment. All subjects reported a positive pinch test. In total, 47.0% of subjects had bruising after treatment, which resolved within a week. No serious adverse events were reported.

Conclusion

Using this novel technique, Radiesse had notable results on skin flaccidity, density and thickness in the thighs, abdomen, and brachial zones, and was well tolerated.

Acquired facial lipoatrophy: pathogenesis and therapeutic options

Facial lipoatrophy refers to the loss of subcutaneous fat tissue presenting by flattening or indentation of convex contour of the face. Facial lipoatrophy is a feature of the normal ageing process. It may be also a manifestation of chronic diseases, most frequently it affects HIV-infected individuals treated with highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) and may constitute a complication of connective tissue diseases, like lupus erythematosus profundus or morphea. Early recognition and treatment of the active stage of connective tissue diseases is of essential significance in prevention of subsequent scarring and atrophy lesions. In HIV-positive patients undergoing HAART therapy, the attempt to modify thetreatment scheme so it has a less lipemic effect seems to be justified. Esthetic correction of facial lipoatrophy in chronic diseases is a great challenge. Improvement of appearance is very important for affected individuals, because it diminishes their stigmatization and psychosocial dysfunction. Facial volumetric correction includes surgical and dermatological procedures such as adipose transfer and injectable dermal fillers.

The successful use of lipectomy in the management of airway obstruction in a woman with HIV-associated lipodystrophy

Lipodystrophy is a common complication of highly active antiretroviral therapy and is associated with significant comorbidities. Altered fat distribution, particularly lipohypertrophy of the dorsal cervical fat pad is associated with reduced quality of life as well as medical complications. We report the rare case of a patient with airway obstruction secondary to HIV-associated lipodystrophy. Ultrasound-assisted liposuction was successfully performed to relieve her airway obstruction and to facilitate a tracheostomy. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first documented case of its kind. We also provide a brief review of the literature on the current management options for HIV-associated lipodystrophy.

Semipermanent filler treatment of HIV-positive patients with facial lipoatrophy: long-term follow-up evaluating MR imaging and quality of life

BACKGROUND

Injectable fillers such as poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) and calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) have shown promising results in the treatment of combination antiretroviral therapy (cART)-induced facial lipoatrophy (FLA). However, the effects of these substances on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) have not yet been described.

OBJECTIVE

The authors analyze the association between the effects of treatment with semipermanent fillers on MRI and changes in quality of life (QOL).

METHODS

Eighty-two human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-positive patients with cART-induced FLA (grades 2-4) were enrolled in this prospective study. A mean volume of 58.2 mL (range, 12-105 mL) of PLLA (n = 41 patients) and 9.1 mL (range, 3-23 mL) of CaHA (n = 41) was injected in multiple sessions. The MRI examinations were performed prior to treatment and again 12 months after. The self-reported severity of FLA as well as QOL was measured using questionnaires based on Short Form 36, Medical Outcomes Study HIV Health Survey, and Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale formats.

RESULTS

Significant increases in total subcutaneous thickness (TST) of the injected regions could be identified on MRI in nearly all patients 1 year posttreatment. Patients reported that mental health and social and role functioning improved; depressive symptoms decreased after treatment. In addition, the increase in TST was positively associated with improvement of QOL.

CONCLUSIONS

This study confirms that treatment with both PLLA and CaHA not only increases TST but also is associated with improved QOL for HIV-infected patients. Furthermore, the study also demonstrates that MRI can show filler-induced neocollagenesis and quantify FLA treatment effects.

Clinical data on injectable tissue fillers: a review

Treatment with injectable tissue fillers for aesthetic purposes is increasingly popular. In parallel with this success, questions related to the safety of these treatments and the products involved are being raised more prominently. To gain insight in the safety aspects of injectable tissue fillers, we performed a literature review to collect studies reporting clinical data of injectable tissue fillers. We found several case reports where serious complications after more than three years are described. However, there are only a limited number of well-defined prospective clinical studies available with follow-up periods longer than three years. Furthermore, causes of complications, that is, treatment or product related, are often not specified in literature. Considering the intended functional period of fillers in combination with the known occurrence of long-term complications, there is a need for well-defined prospective clinical studies. In order to be able to discriminate between product failure (a product safety issue) or application methodology (a physician expertise or training issue), better identification of observed complications and whether they are product or treatment related, is needed. For the safe use of the fillers it is important that treatment with injectable tissue fillers is performed by a trained physician, who knows the product specifications and its applications.

Current treatment methods for combination antiretroviral therapy-induced lipoatrophy of the face

Summary

Combination antiretroviral therapy (CART) reduces the mortality and morbidity in HIV-infected patients. However, facial lipoatrophy (FLA) is one of the well-known side-effects of this treatment and subsequently imposes major problems for HIV-infected patients. In the last decade, ample experience has been obtained with both local therapeutic options as well as possible systemic treatment options. Soft tissue fillers are a relatively simple and efficient treatment option for FLA. Especially, the biodegradable semi-permanent fillers combine a good effect with durability and an acceptable safety profile. The best way to prevent or restrict the development of FLA remains the exclusion of thymidine analogue nucleoside reverse-transcriptase inhibitors from the CART schedule.

High-density hyaluronic acid for the treatment of HIV-related facial lipoatrophy

BACKGROUND

Facial lipoatrophy is a stigmatizing hallmark of HIV. The injection of facial fillers has an essential role in the treatment of this condition. The objective of our study was to verify the safety and efficacy of a new formulation of high-density hyaluronic acid for the injectable treatment of HIV-related facial lipoatrophy.

METHODS

We treated with high-density hyaluronic acid injections HIV patients affected by moderate to severe facial lipoatrophy and evaluated them at last follow-up, at a minimum of 36 weeks. Physician-related outcomes included pre-and post-treatment ultrasound measurement of the soft-tissue thickness of the cheeks and qualitative assessment of aesthetic results by means of the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale using pre- and post-treatment photos of the patients. Patient satisfaction outcomes were evaluated with the VAS-face scale and Freiburg test.

RESULTS

Fifty-four patients were studied. The median number of treatment sessions was 3 and the median length of treatment was 5.5 months. The thickness of the soft tissues of the cheek increased significantly from 9.45 to 13.12 mm (p<0.0001). On the basis of the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale, 87.5% of the patients were judged as "much improved" or "improved." Patient satisfaction at 1 year from the end of treatment was proven (VAS-face: 77.9; Freiburg questionnaire: 93.6% of patients were satisfied or very satisfied). Complications were limited to mild redness and swelling in the early postoperative period.

CONCLUSION

Long-term improvement of facial contour and excellent patient satisfaction, in the absence of severe side effects, were obtained by the injection of high-density hyaluronic acid (STYLAGE® XL) in HIV patients with facial lipoatrophy.

Growth hormone and tesamorelin in the management of HIV-associated lipodystrophy

HIV-infected patients on highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) develop a complex of body composition changes known, including peripheral fat loss (lipoatrophy) and central fat accumulation (lipohypertrophy). These changes may cause significant patient distress, which could in turn interfere with adherence to antiretroviral therapy. Treatment options - including antiretroviral switch, insulin sensitizers, and surgical approaches - have been associated with limited success and potential complications. The observation that low growth hormone levels are associated with central fat accumulation among HIV patients has led to the development of tesamorelin (a growth hormone releasing hormone analog) for the management of central fat accumulation. Randomized controlled trials have shown that administration of tesamorelin is safe and effective in reducing central fat accumulation among HIV-infected patients. This effect is transient, however, and its association with improved cardiovascular risk remains unclear.

Cutaneous toxicities of antiretroviral therapy for HIV: part I. Lipodystrophy syndrome, nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors, and protease inhibitors

Antiretroviral medications for the treatment of HIV are common drugs with diverse and frequent skin manifestations. Multiple new cutaneous effects have been recognized in the past decade. Dermatologists play an important role in accurately diagnosing and managing the cutaneous toxicities of these medications, thereby ensuring that a patient has as many therapeutic options as possible for life-long viral suppression. Part I of this two-part series on the cutaneous adverse effects of antiretroviral medications will discuss HIV-associated lipodystrophy syndrome, which can be seen as a result of many antiretroviral medications for HIV, and the specific cutaneous effects of the nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors and protease inhibitors.

New and emerging agents in the management of lipodystrophy in HIV-infected patients

Lipodystrophy remains a major long-term complication in human immunodeficiency virus-infected patients under antiretroviral (ARV) therapy. Patients may present with lipoatrophy or lipohypertrophy or both. The choice of treatments to improve fat redistribution depends on the form of lipodystrophy and its duration. Measures known to improve lipoatrophy are switches in ARV therapy (stavudine or zidovudine to abacavir or tenofovir) and filling interventions. Pioglitazone may be added to these measures, although any benefits appear small. Uridine and leptin were found to be disappointing so far. Regarding lipohypertrophy, diet and exercise, recombinant human growth hormone, and metformin may reduce visceral fat, but may worsen subcutaneous lipoatrophy. Surgical therapy may be required. Attractive pharmacologic treatments include growth hormone-releasing factor and leptin. Adiponectin and adiponectin receptors are promising therapeutic targets to explore.

A systematic review of permanent and semipermanent dermal fillers for HIV-associated facial lipoatrophy

The objective of this study was to assess the safety and efficacy of injectable semipermanent and permanent dermal fillers, compared to other facial augmentation techniques, for the management of facial lipoatrophy as a result of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) for HIV infection through a systematic review of the literature. A systematic search strategy was used to retrieve relevant studies. Inclusion of articles was by the application of a predetermined protocol, independent assessment by two reviewers, and a final consensus decision. One randomized controlled trial (RCT), one pseudo-RCT, two nonrandomized comparative studies, and seven case series were included for review. Injections with permanent and semipermanent dermal fillers improved subjective ratings of appearance and resulted in high patient satisfaction. Although short-term safety appeared favorable, of the seven studies that reported lumps, three studies reported these events in more than 40% of patients. Long-term safety data were lacking. Evidence suggests that permanent and semipermanent dermal fillers achieve their objective, which is to decrease the visible effects of HIV-associated facial lipoatrophy, with high patient satisfaction. Safety appears favorable in the short term, but further studies are required to determine long-term outcomes.

Addressing volume loss in hand rejuvenation: a report of clinical experience

BACKGROUND

Current options for treating the aging hand include microdermabrasion, fractional thermolysis, chemical peeling, intense light sources and laser therapy (such as pigment lasers and ablative resurfacing), as well as injectable fillers and volumizers to correct soft tissue atrophy.

OBJECTIVE

This article reviews the latest technologies in hand rejuvenation and provides data from three clinical practices using injectable poly-l-lactic acid (PLLA) for soft tissue augmentation.

METHODS

Patient data from three clinical practices were retrospectively collected and tabulated. This included baseline patient data, the number of injections and vials of product used, and adverse events.

RESULTS

PLLA was used to improve volume loss in the hand to the satisfaction of a majority of patients. The most commonly reported adverse events, such as bruising, swelling and pain, were injection-related and resolved within a few days of treatment. No papules or nodules were reported in any patients and there were no serious adverse events.

CONCLUSION

The overall results from the three clinics presented here show that patients were very satisfied with the results of PLLA treatment for the hands, and experienced only minor and short-term injection-related adverse events.

Peripheral and visceral fat changes following a treatment switch to a non-thymidine analogue or a nucleoside-sparing regimen in HIV-infected subjects with peripheral lipoatrophy: results of ACTG A5110

BACKGROUND

Switching a thymidine analogue to a non-thymidine analogue or changing to a nucleoside-sparing regimen has been shown to partially reverse peripheral lipoatrophy. The current study evaluated both approaches.

METHODS

Subjects at 15 AIDS Clinical Trial Group sites receiving thymidine analogue stavudine- or zidovudine-containing regimens with plasma HIV RNA < or =500 copies/mL and lipoatrophy were prospectively randomized to: (i) switch the thymidine analogue to abacavir; (ii) discontinue all antiretrovirals and switch to lopinavir/ritonavir plus nevirapine (LPV/r+NVP); or (iii) delay switching for 24 weeks (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT00028314). Single-slice computer tomography of mid-thigh and abdominal fat and metabolic and virological/immunological parameters were measured at baseline and weeks 24 and 48.

RESULTS

Among the 101 patients enrolled, there were significant subcutaneous thigh fat and subcutaneous abdominal tissue (SAT) increases over time and decreases in visceral adipose tissue to total adipose tissue (VAT:TAT) ratios for both interventions, and a decrease in VAT for abacavir. CD4 increased in the LPV/r+NVP arm. LPV/r+NVP had a significantly shorter time to grade 3 or higher toxicity (P = 0.007), but discontinuation rates were similar. Glucose levels did not change, but insulin decreased in the LPV/r+NVP arm. Lipids tended to increase in the LPV/r+NVP arm.

CONCLUSIONS

Switching stavudine or zidovudine to a non-thymidine analogue or changing to a nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor-sparing regimen is associated with qualitatively similar improvements in thigh fat, SAT and VAT:TAT ratio at 48 weeks. Abacavir also resulted in VAT reductions and LPV/r+NVP resulted in CD4 count increases.

Lipodystrophy syndromes

Lipodystrophy syndromes comprise a group of rare, heterogeneous disorders characterized by progressive loss of fat tissue, mainly from subcutaneous compartment and occasionally affecting visceral fat. Lipoatrophy may be partial, localized, or generalized. The latter cases are usually accompanied by metabolic-related disorders, including insulin resistance, diabetes mellitus, hyperlipemia, progressive hepatic disease and anabolic state. Treatment for lipodystrophy has increased interest in recent years because a new lipoatrophic population-patients who have HIV-associated lipodystrophy--is much more numerous than the whole number of patients affected by classic lipodystrophy entities.

Body-fat abnormalities in patients with HIV: progress and challenges

The introduction of newer antiretroviral drugs has provided greater levels of HIV suppression with fewer of the metabolic effects, lipoatrophy, and body habitus changes associated with earlier therapies. Previously classified under the collective term, lipodystrophy, lipoatrophy and body-fat changes are now known to occur independently in some HIV-infected patients, depending on the type and duration of antiretroviral therapy and a myriad of factors including HIV infection alone that contribute significantly to these changes. This article reviews the current scientific literature and recent clinical trial results that distinguish lipoatrophy or dyslipidemia pathophysiologically from body-fat changes seen as central and peripheral lipohypertrophy and fat redistribution, as well as the nature and extent of changes associated with HIV infection alone and newer antiretroviral therapies. This information may assist physicians in identifying individual risk factors and choosing the type of antiretroviral therapy that may minimize these changes without loss of virologic suppression.

A review of minimally invasive cosmetic procedures

In today's society the desire to maintain a youthful appearance has driven the development of minimally invasive dermatological procedures that are designed to rejuvenate the ageing face. The aim of this review is to present evidence for the use of techniques which can easily be incorporated into outpatient dermatology practice with low overhead expenditure. For this reason, laser and light-based treatments have been omitted. This review will instead focus on chemical peels, intradermal fillers and botulinum toxin. These techniques address the main aspects of facial ageing, namely photodamage, volume loss and dynamic lines, which correlate anatomically to skin, subcutaneous fat and muscle. A combination of such techniques will provide the practitioner with a reasonable portfolio of treatments for a balanced, holistic result.

Outcome measures in facial plastic surgery: patient-reported and clinical efficacy measures

OBJECTIVE

To survey the existing literature to identify, summarize, and evaluate procedure- and condition-specific outcome measures for use in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery.

METHODS

A review of the English-language literature was performed to identify outcomes instruments specific for targeted facial plastic surgery interventions and conditions. A search was performed using MEDLINE (1950 to September 2007), CINAHL (Cumulative Index to Nursing & Allied Health) (1982 to September 2007), and PsychINFO (1806 to September 2007). Outcomes instruments were categorized as patient-reported or clinical efficacy measures (observer-reported or objective measures). Instruments were then categorized to include relevant details on the intervention, degree of validation, and subsequent use.

RESULTS

Sixty-eight distinct instruments were identified (23 patient-reported, 35 observer-reported, and 10 objective measures), with some overlap among categories. Most patient-reported measures (76%) and half observer-reported instruments (51%) were developed in the past 10 years. The rigor of validation varied widely among measures, with formal validation being most common among the patient-reported outcome measures.

CONCLUSIONS

Validated outcomes measures are present for many common facial plastic surgery conditions and have become more prevalent during the past decade, especially for patient-reported outcomes. Challenges remain in harmonizing patient-reported, observer-based, and other objective measures to produce standardized clinically meaningful outcome measures.