Cold microwave plasma effects on dog skin hydration and safety

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Cold atmospheric microwave plasma (CAMP) is a promising therapeutic option for treating skin infections and wounds. Changes in biophysical skin parameters and the tolerability in dogs after applying CAMP is unknown. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate the in vivo effects of CAMP on skin biophysical parameters [hydration, transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and surface temperature] and tolerability in dogs. ANIMALS: Twenty client-owned dogs with normal skin. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Cold atmospheric microwave plasma treatment was performed for 30 s and 1, 2 and 4 min, respectively, at different sites of normal canine skin in the inguinal area. Hydration, TEWL and surface temperature were measured five, three and three times, respectively, before and after CAMP application. After treatment, pain and adverse effects were evaluated using a modified Melbourne Pain Scale and the modified short form Glasgow Composite Measure Pain Scale (modified CMPS-SF). RESULTS: Transepidermal water loss values significantly decreased with 4 min of treatment, and hydration decreased significantly with 2 min of treatment. Temperature increased significantly with increasing treatment time. For other parameters, no significant changes were observed. No significant pain response or adverse effects were observed in most dogs, aside from mild erythema in the treatment area after 4 min. CONCLUSION AND CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Cold atmospheric microwave plasma treatment was well-tolerated and did not significantly change canine skin biophysical parameters. CAMP achieves basic recommendations for safe use and is a potential therapeutic option for various skin diseases in dogs.