Sculptra Saves Faces for HIV Patients
Lipoatrophy, a condition during which the fat below the skin wastes away, is traditionally experienced by people with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Such patients are characterized by the sunken, almost hollow appearance of their cheeks and under their eyes which gradually worsens as the virus continues to take its toll on the body. Sculptra is a new FDA-approved treatment that reverses Lipoatrophy so that the face no longer shows signs of illness. Used internationally since 1999, Sculptra has helped an estimated 150,000 patients in over 30 countries. The treatment became widespread due to its consistent and lasting results. In May 2002 Dermik Laboratories, a United States company, acquired Sculptra and since then it has become a popular method for treating Lipoatrophy in this country. The FDA approved Sculptra in the United States on August 3, 2004. As a synthetic compound, Sculptra is injected into the body where it progressively thickens the skin. The fat is replaced by volume so that the loss of fat is no longer noticeable. Since Sculptra is composed entirely of poly-L-lactic acid which is a synthetic material no skin test is required for use in patients. The elimination of the testing process ensures Sculptra as a more efficient form of treatment. Poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) is a good choice for use in medical treatments because it does not provoke opportunities that would cause additional stress to the human body. PLLA is biocompatible and biodegradable which means is will not harm the body and the body can break down the acid. Although the treatment is used most commonly for people with HIV, Sculptra can be used for people who want to remove wrinkles, skins folds and creases caused by non-virus culprits. Several treatment sessions are needed to create the facial structure of a person without Lipoatrophy and the results typically last at least two years. Health Risks and Treatment Costs The drug is the first of its kind to receive FDA approval; such status provides assurance for patients researching the benefits and risks of Sculptra. However, as with any drug a list of planned precautions must be considered before actual treatment is involved. Talk to your doctor and ask as many questions as possible. Having this discussion will keep both of you on the same page regarding your expectations and potential health risks. An informed patient is a calm patient and having confidence in one’s treatment can make the overall experience more comfortable. Possible side effects of Sculptra include the appearance of small bumps under the skin. Though these bumps are not usually noticeable from the outside they can be felt if the skin nearby is pressed. Additional possible outcomes are similar to those experienced from any injection. Localized swelling, bruising, redness and soreness are not unusual. Likewise, bleeding and tenderness at the site of injection may occur. Sculptra is discouraged for use in areas where the skin is inflamed or infected. Furthermore, a person who has allergies for any ingredients contained in Sculptra should not undergo the treatment. Of course, costs are always a crucial component in choosing one form of treatment over another. Sculptra is not cheap and this causes concern for individuals who need the treatment but who cannot afford 4-6 visits at $1,500 a piece. Insurance companies might deny coverage due to the “cosmetic” use of the treatment. However, people who have HIV and Lipoatrophy often face work and social challenges that increase the likelihood of depression and potentially suicide. Dermik Laboratories which sells Sculptra in the U.S. is working on a patient-assistance program for patients who meet certain income and other eligibility requirements. Such extra help would allow for more people to receive this treatment that can help improve a person’s quality of life by boosting confidence. The patient will still retain accountability for paying doctor’s costs. Hopefully the cost of Sculptra treatment will reduce but in the meantime it is the one of the best options today for an HIV patient who wishes to remove Lipoatrophy from his or her life.
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