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A randomised double-blind study comparing the effect of 1072-nm light against placebo for the treatment of herpes labialis
Article first published online: 15 JUN 2006
DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2230.2006.02191.x
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How to Cite
Hargate, G. (2006), A randomised double-blind study comparing the effect of 1072-nm light against placebo for the treatment of herpes labialis. Clinical and Experimental Dermatology, 31: 638–641. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2230.2006.02191.x
Publication History
- Issue published online: 15 JUN 2006
- Article first published online: 15 JUN 2006
- Accepted for publication 30 March 2006
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Summary
Background. Previous research demonstrated that 1072-nm narrowband laser light is effective in the treatment of cold sores.
Aim. To evaluate the efficacy of an over-the-counter cold-sore treatment device (Virulite CS) incorporating 1072-nm light-emitting diodes.
Methods. A randomised, prospective, double-blind, self-reported study was performed to compare the efficacy of at least six 3-min treatments of 1072-nm narrowband light against placebo, in the treatment of herpes labialis.
Results. The 1072-nm light-emitting diode device reduced cold-sore healing time to 6.3 days compared with 9.4 days for placebo (P = 0.048). The time the cold sore took to form a crust was also reduced from 2.00 days for those treated with 1072-nm light, compared with 2.88 days for placebo (P = 0.059)
Conclusions. The significant difference between the mean healing times in the two groups demonstrates that the Virulite CS device is an effective means of treating herpes labialis.