Abstract: A dermatological treatment method includes directing laser energy having a wavelength of 2.79 ?m onto skin. According to disclosed methods, the energy can function to ablate a first portion of epidermal tissue, coagulate an underlying second portion of epidermal tissue, and promote collagen formation in tissue of the underlying dermis. Tn an exemplary treatment apparatus, a laser using a YSGG gain medium is mounted in a handpiece. The handpiece may include a two-axis scanner to allow for uniform scanning of the energy over the tissue surface.

Abstract: According to one embodiment of the invention, a test strip for obtaining a test sample includes an adhesive substrate that includes a first surface and a second surface. The second surface includes a first adhesive layer adhering at least a portion of the adhesive substrate to a backing. A first handling surface is positioned proximate to a first end of the substrate. A second handling surface is positioned proximate to a second end of the substrate. The first and second handling surfaces define a contact area for collecting a test sample.