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Revolutionizing AKN Treatment: Follicular Unit Excision’s Success in Papular Acne Keloidalis Nuchae

Recently, we published a research paper titled “Papular Acne Keloidalis Nuchae Treatment Success Using Follicular Unit Excision” in JAAD Case Reports. This study explores a treatment method for Acne keloidalis nuchae (AKN) using Follicular Unit Excision (FUE), which could be a promising solution for individuals dealing with this condition.

The groundbreaking study was published in the JAAD Case Reports journal.
The groundbreaking study was published in the JAAD Case Reports journal.

Acne Keloidalis Nuchae (AKN) and Its Challenges

AKN is a persistent condition that primarily affects men of color and raises both medical and aesthetic concerns. While traditional treatments vary in their effectiveness, AKN’s unique nature calls for innovative approaches. The Follicular Unit Excision technique holds the potential to address these challenges.

FUE for Targeted Treatment

The study focuses on using FUE to precisely target hair follicles within visible AKN papules. This approach aims to address the underlying cause for long-lasting improvement and better aesthetics.

Results from Case Studies

The study involved three patients who underwent FUE treatment for AKN. The procedure used the Dr. UGraft Zeus FUE device, suitable for the specific scalp characteristics often seen in AKN patients. This technique minimized scarring risk and preserved the surrounding hair.

The UGraft Zeus device showing a handpiece, foot pedal, and a console with a dashboard highlighting (yellow) the thick-firm scalp preset selection and the torque (UForce) and rotational speed (RPM) dials. Inset shows a closer view of the punch (Red arrow). RPM, Revolution per minute.
The UGraft Zeus device showing a handpiece, foot pedal, and a console with a dashboard highlighting (yellow) the thick-firm scalp preset selection and the torque (UForce) and rotational speed (RPM) dials.

Impact of FUE Treatment on AKN Patients

Case studies indicate that FUE effectively treats AKN by targeting visible and accessible hair follicles. Patient 1, a 26-year-old African-American man, achieved AKN remission within nine months.

Similarly, patient 2, a 37-year-old Hispanic man with additional Folliculitis decalvans (FD) lesions, showed no signs of disease recurrence nine months post-treatment. Patient 3, a 42-year-old African man with localized AKN lesions, experienced lesion clearance at the 18-month follow-up.

Hispanic male patient seen with tiny wounds secondary to FUE procedure, taken immediately after surgery for papular AKN (left). African male patient with tiny wounds secondary to FUE procedure, taken immediately after surgery for papular AKN (right).
Hispanic male patient seen with tiny wounds secondary to FUE procedure, taken immediately after surgery for papular AKN (left). African male patient with tiny wounds secondary to FUE procedure, taken immediately after surgery for papular AKN (right). *

Broader Implications of FUE

This research holds significance beyond the case studies. AKN has been challenging to treat due to limited options, with traditional methods often falling short. FUE offers an alternative that achieves lasting remission without extensive scarring or patchy hair loss, holding promise for managing other types of alopecia.

Looking Ahead

While these initial findings are promising, further comprehensive studies are needed to validate and expand upon these results.

A Step Forward in Dermatology

In summary, the paper “Papular Acne Keloidalis Nuchae Treatment Success Using Follicular Unit Excision” represents progress in dermatology. FUE has the potential to provide relief for AKN sufferers and potentially transform treatment approaches for various forms of alopecia, offering hope for both patients and practitioners.

For more details, you can refer to the full publication in JAAD Case Reports. Let’s explore the potential of innovative dermatological techniques for the future.

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