Liposomes.

When liposomes were initially discovered more than 30 years ago, predictions were largely met with skepticism; however, recent advances have allowed the development of liposomes that are potentially medically useful. Systemic and topical drug delivery by liposomes is possible. Although liposomal amphotericin B, a systemic antifungal agent, is the only medical liposomal product commercially available in the United States, there have been considerable advances in liposomal delivery systems with important applications in dermatology. In tbis article, the basic chemistry of liposotnes will be reviewed as well as their potential uses in dermatology. The basic chemistry and a brief overview of methods of preparation will be discussed first. Then we will examine the kinetics of systemic and topical liposomal therapy, as well as hair follicle targeting. Next, the liposomal advances in skin cancer prevention, cancer therapy, and gene therapy will be discussed. Finally, specific liposoma! drugs and drug classes, including topical anesthetics, topical corticosteroids, topical interferon, liposomal amphotericin B, and artificial blood, will be examined. We will not discuss cosmetic applications of liposome preparations.^