Reduction in osmidrosis using a suction-assisted cartilage shaver improves the quality of life

BACKGROUND: Axillary osmidrosis is a benign disorder that causes functional and emotional problems in Asian patients. Surgical treatments have proven effective in treating this disease, but changes in quality of life after surgical procedures have not been investigated so far. OBJECTIVE To evaluate quality of life in patients with osmidrosis before and after surgery with suction-assisted cartilage shaver using the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI). METHODS Seventy patients with axillary osmidrosis (aged 14-49, 8 men and 62 women) who were treated using a suction-assisted cartilage shaver at the Department of Dermatology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, from May 2006 to November 2008 were included. Patients completed the DLQI before and 6 to 35 (mean 18.3) months after treatment. Scores for patient satisfaction and improvement were also investigated. RESULTS Mean DLQI score before treatment was 11.3 (range 5-27). After 6 to 35 (mean 18.3) months of postoperative follow-up, DLQI scores (mean 0.8, range 0-4) declined significantly (93% reduction). Fifty-nine patients (84.2%) reported odor reduction of 90% or more; 24 patients (34.3%) were greatly satisfied, and 41 were (58.6%) absolutely satisfied with this procedure. CONCLUSION Our data demonstrate that the suction-assisted cartilage shaver can greatly improve functional and social disabilities in patients with axillary osmidrosis. The authors have indicated no significant interest with commercial supporters.