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Answer generated on June 5, 2024
The AI-generated responses are for illustration purposes only and should not be used for medical purposes.
Potential side effects of iontophoresis for hyperhidrosis include paresthesia, pruritus, pain, erythema, dryness, and in rare cases, vesicle formation and abrasions.[1]
Paresthesia occurs in a significant number of patients, reported at 88%.[1]
Pruritus and pain are also common, each affecting about 26% of patients.[1]
Erythema and dryness are less frequent, occurring in 14% and 12% of patients, respectively.[1]
Vesicle formation and abrasions are rare, reported in only 2% of patients.[1]
Iontophoresis for hyperhidrosis involves passing a mild electrical current through water into the skin's surface, which can lead to various skin reactions. The most common side effects include sensations like paresthesia and less commonly, skin irritation such as erythema and dryness. These side effects are generally mild and transient but can affect patient compliance and comfort. It's important for the physician to inform patients about these potential side effects and manage expectations appropriately. Monitoring and adjusting the treatment parameters can help minimize these adverse effects while achieving optimal therapeutic outcomes.
1.
Dagash H, McCaffrey S, Mellor K, Roycroft A, Helbling I. Journal of Pediatric Surgery. 2017;52(2):309-312. doi:10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2016.11.026.
Publish date: February 3, 2017.
AIM OF THE STUDY: The treatment options for localized hyperhidrosis include antiperspirants, anticholinergics, iontophoresis, botulinum toxin and surgery. Tap water iontophoresis (TWI) involves immersing the affected area in tap water and passing a small electrical current through the area. Our aim was to assess the success of this therapy in a pediatric cohort. METHODS: Retrospective case note review of all patients younger than 18years who underwent TWI between 2002 and 2015. Demographic data, number of treatment sessions, side effects and overall success were analyzed. Individuals undergo 7 treatments over 4weeks. A positive outcome was determined as an improvement in symptoms. Pre- and posttreatment hyperhidrosis disease severity scale (HDSS) was measured. Data are presented as mean (range). Statistical analysis was by paired t-test. A P value of <0.05 was regarded as significant. RESULTS: There were 43 patients (30 females) with a mean age of 15 (8-17) years. Palmar and/or plantar hyperhidrosis (PPH) was present in 39/43 (91%) patients. Axillary hyperhidrosis (AH) was present in 19/43 (44%) patients. All patients (with the exception of one) underwent 7 sessions (5-7). Side effects included paresthesia (88%), pruritus (26%), pain (26%), erythema (14%), dryness (12%) as well as vesicle formation and abrasions in one patient (2%). A positive outcome was found in 84% (36/43) of patients. There was a significant reduction in mean HDSS (pre 3.5 vs. post 2; P=0.0001).
