Effects of Direct Current Administration on Hyperhidrosis Disease Severity Scale in Patients with Axillary Hyperhidrosis

BACKGROUND: Focal hyperhidrosis mostly affects the axillae, hands, feet, and face. For the management, several techniques are used. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of direct current administration on the hyperhidrosis disease severity scale (HDSS) in patients with axillary hyperhidrosis that have various HDSS scores. DESIGN AND SETTING: Original article, University Hospital. METHODS: Sixty patients with primary axillary hyperhidrosis were inquired about the HDSS scores and the scores were noted at the onset and at the end of the 10th application. One month after the last session, HDSS scores were also inquired. At the end of 1-month follow-up, the patients whose HDSS scores rose after the 10th session were accepted as nonresponder. For the current delivery, a new iontophoresis application module (Sweat CureR) designed by Dr. Karakoc was used. RESULTS: Direct current application decreased axillary sweat intensity by 70% at both sides, and lowered the HDSS by about 1.5 degree. Major reduction in sweat intensity was in the patients with low HDSS scores (75%). Negative correlation was found between initial HDSS scores and median values of decreased sweat intensity (r = −0.317, p = 0.022). Minimal temporary side effects including skin irritation and one or more vesicle formation were inspected in 29 patients and, the permanent punctual pigmentation was observed only in one patient. CONCLUSIONS: Decrease in axillary hyperhidrosis is satisfactory for these patients. Since iontophoresis application has beneficial effect and minimal side effects, it should be recommended to the patients before advanced management or surgical techniques.