Treatment of oral lichen planus with the 308-nm UVB excimer laser--early preliminary results in eight patients

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Oral lichen planus (OLP) is a chronic disease of uncertain origin. Many patients with OLP are refractory to all available therapies. The 308-nm excimer laser was used as a possible additional method in the treatment of OLP. STUDY DESIGN/MATERIALS AND METHODS: Eight patients with OLP were treated using the 308-nm UVB excimer laser. RESULTS: Clinical improvement was achieved in six patients. Two patients showed complete remission, of which one patient showed recurrence of the lesions after 4 weeks. CONCLUSION: The preliminary results in our opinion warrant further studies of this treatment.     

A 308-nm excimer laser for the treatment of scalp psoriasis

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Scalp psoriasis is a frustrating disorder whose treatments can all too often be cumbersome and ineffective. Our objective was to test a combination device involving the 308-nm excimer laser in tandem with a hair blower for treating scalp psoriasis. STUDY DESIGN/MATERIALS AND METHODS: Adult subjects with scalp psoriasis unresponsive to class I topical steroids used in conjunction with medicated shampoos were treated with 308-nm excimer laser pulses in conjunction with a hair blower that parted the obstructing hair twice a week for up to 15 weeks. Half of the scalp served as a control. Starting doses were based on standard minimal erythema dose (MED)'s with subsequent increments of up to 20%. RESULTS: Thirteen subjects completed the study without adverse events. Two were dropped due to lack of compliance. At the end of the investigation, the difference in the mean modified PASI scores between the control and treated sites was 4.0 (<0.0001). CONCLUSIONS: The air blower device in conjunction with the 308-nm excimer laser can safely and effectively treat otherwise refractory scalp psoriasis.     

Targeted phototherapy using 308 nm Xecl monochromatic excimer laser for psoriasis at difficult to treat sites

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory multisystem disease involving skin and joints affecting 1–3 % of the world population. The 308-nm excimer laser has been recently used in the treatment of psoriasis, especially localized psoriasis of scalp and palm and soles. The objective of the study is to evaluate the therapeutic efficacy and safety of a 308-nm excimer laser for the treatment of scalp and palmoplantar psoriasis. A total of 41 adult patients (25 males and 16 females) were enrolled in this study, of which 26 patients had lesions localized to scalp, and 15 patients had involvement of palm and soles. The mean age was 44.5 years (range 18–73). And, the mean duration of psoriasis in our patients was 15 years. They were treated with a 308-nm excimer laser. The initial dose was based on multiples of a predetermined minimal erythema dose, twice weekly for a maximum 12 weeks. Twenty-two of the 23 patients with scalp psoriasis showed improvement, while one patient showed no change; none experienced worsening of symptoms. The mean minimal erythema dose (MED) was found to be 383 mJ/cm² (range 180–650 mJ/cm²). The cumulative dose of irradiation was 1,841 mJ/cm² (range 600–2,500). The percentage improvement from baseline in PSSI score was 78.57 %. Side effects were seen in 20 patients (86.96 %) mainly in the form of erythema. Four patients developed mild relapse at the end of 6 months after the therapy. In 15 patients with palmoplantar psoriasis, the mean MED was found to be 415 mJ/cm² (range 200–950 mJ/cm²). The cumulative dose of irradiation was 28.4–115.5 J?cm² (mean 59.1 J?cm²). The mean number of treatments to achieve clearance (equal to 90 % reduction of PSI score) was 16. Two patients relapsed at the end of 6 months after the therapy. The 308-nm excimer laser is an effective, safe, easy, and relatively quicker method for the treatment of psoriasis at difficult to treat sites, with good results in a somewhat short time.     

Effectiveness of a 308-nm excimer laser in treatment of vitiligo: a review

Vitiligo is a relatively common acquired disorder, characterized by progressive loss of melanocytes from the epidermis and the epidermal appendages. The disease is associated with considerable morbidity because of a major impact on the quality of life. The treatment for vitiligo is generally unsatisfactory and challenging. There are a variety of therapeutic possibilities including topical corticosteroids, topical calcineurin inhibitors, as well as phototherapy with Psoralen plus UVA (PUVA), narrow-band UVB, and a 308-nm excimer laser and/or lamps. Furthermore, surgical methods encompass grafting and transplantation while depigmentation treatments and psychological support may also be considered. The objective is to assess the effect of the 380-nm excimer laser in the treatment of vitiligo based on the available studies and case series. We searched the relevant literature about vitiligo and excimer laser published between 1990 and 2012 using the MEDLINE database. We reviewed all relevant articles about 308-nm excimer laser and light sources assessing their efficacy in the management of vitiligo as well as their side effects. The value of combination treatment methods was also analyzed. The available studies provide strong evidence that the excimer laser represents the most effective approach to treat vitiligo compared to ordinary phototherapy. Excimer laser is relatively safe and effective for localized disease. UV-sensitive areas respond best as well as a short duration of the disease. More frequent treatments achieve better results. Compared to other treatment modalities, the excimer laser most likely constitutes the treatment of choice for localized vitiligo. Its efficacy can be further improved in combination with other therapies such as corticosteroids, pimecrolimus, or tacrolimus.     

The Use of Fractional Laser Photothermolysis for the Treatment of Atrophic Scars

BACKGROUND: Patients with atrophic scars commonly seek treatment for their removal but are often concerned about the prolonged recovery, short-lived results, and/or ineffectiveness of available therapies. A novel treatment using a 1,550-nm erbium-doped fiber laser to induce fractional photothermolysis of treated skin has been used to resurface photodamaged skin but has not been studied previously in patients with atrophic scars to determine its effectiveness for this condition. PURPOSE: To determine the effectiveness and safety of 1,550-nm erbium-doped fiber laser treatment on atrophic scars. METHODS: Fifty-three patients (skin phototypes I-V) with mild to moderate atrophic facial acne scars received monthly treatment with a 1,550-nm erbium-doped fiber laser (Fraxel, Reliant Technologies Inc., San Diego, CA). Clinical response to treatment was determined at each treatment visit and 6 months after the final treatment session by two independent assessors using a quartile grading scale. Side effects and patient satisfaction were monitored at each follow-up visit. RESULTS: Clinical improvement averaged 51% to 75% in nearly 90% of patients after three monthly laser treatments. Mean improvement scores increased proportionately with each successive laser session. Clinical response rates were independent of age, gender, or skin phototype. Side effects included transient erythema and edema in most patients, but no dyspigmentation, ulceration, or scarring. CONCLUSIONS: Atrophic scars can be effectively and safely reduced with 1,550-nm erbium-doped fiber laser treatment.     

308-nm Excimer Laser Treatment of Mature Hypopigmented Striae

BACKGROUND: The 308-nm excimer laser has been shown to be effective in the treatment of disorders of hypopigmentation. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effectiveness of the 308-nm excimer laser in the treatment of mature hypopigmented striae. RESULTS: Seventy-five subjects were treated for a total of 615 treatments. All patients achieved a substantial increase in the darkening of their striae after an average of 8.4 treatments. Clinically evident improvement in cosmetic appearance of striae was noted by 80% of subjects. CONCLUSION: The 308-nm excimer laser is effective for increasing pigmentation in mature hypopigmented striae. This pigmentation is cosmetically significant. Future studies are required to determine the duration of clinical improvement.     

Fractional Resurfacing for the Treatment of Hypopigmented Scars: A Pilot Study

BACKGROUND: Treatments for hypopigmented scars have shown limited efficacy and variable safety profiles. OBJECTIVE This study evaluated the safety and efficacy of fractional resurfacing (1,550-nm Fraxel SR laser, Reliant Technologies, Mountain View, CA) for the treatment of hypopigmented scars on the face in seven patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Seven patients with hypopigmented scars on the face received between two and four successive treatments at 4-week intervals with the 1,550-nm Fraxel SR laser. Energy settings ranged from 7 to 20 mJ and a total density of 1,000 to 2,500 microthermal zones per square centimeter. Digital photographs were taken before each treatment and at 4 weeks after the last treatment. Independent physician clinical assessments were performed. RESULTS: Independent physician clinical assessment 4 weeks after the final Fraxel SR laser treatment revealed improvements of 51% to 75% in hypopigmentation in six of seven patients. One patient had only 26% to 50% improvement in hypopigmentation. Additionally, clinical improvements were noted in the overall texture of the treated skin. The patient's degree of satisfaction paralleled the physician's assessment of improvement. All patients reported improvement in hypopigmentation lasting greater than 3 months after the last treatment. Side effects were limited to mild pain during the treatment and mild posttreatment erythema and edema, which resolved in 2 to 4 days. CONCLUSION: Fractional resurfacing is a potentially effective modality for the treatment of hypopigmented scarring on the face. No adverse effects were observed.     

Treatment of inflammatory facial acne vulgaris with combination 595-nm pulsed-dye laser with dynamic-cooling-device and 1,450-nm diode laser

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The 585-nm pulsed-dye laser and the 1,450-nm diode laser have been found effective for the treatment of mild-to-moderate inflammatory facial acne. This study was designed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the combined treatment with the 595-nm pulsed-dye laser and the 1,450-nm diode laser for inflammatory facial acne. STUDY DESIGN/MATERIALS AND METHODS: Fifteen patients with inflammatory facial acne were treated with a combination of the 595-nm pulsed-dye laser and the 1,450-nm diode laser. Patients' subjective response to treatment was evaluated regarding improvement in acne, acne scarring, oiliness, and redness of the skin. RESULTS: All patients had reductions in acne lesion counts. Mean lesion counts decreased 52% (P < 0.01), 63% (P < 0.01), and 84% (P < 0.01) after one, two, and three treatments, respectively. Patients described moderate-to-marked improvement in acne, acne scarring, and post-inflammatory erythema. Adverse effects were limited to mild, transient erythema. CONCLUSIONS: The combination of the 595-nm pulsed-dye laser and the 1,450-nm diode laser is safe and effective for the treatment of inflammatory facial acne, acne scarring, and post-inflammatory erythema.     

Efficacy of monochromatic excimer light (308 nm) in the treatment of atopic dermatitis in adults and children

OBJECTIVE: To demonstrate the efficacy of light produced by a 308 nm xenon-chloride monochromatic excimer light (MEL) in the treatment of localized lesions of atopic dermatitis (AD) in adults and in children. BACKGROUND DATA: The 308-nm excimer light has been reported to be safe and effective in the treatment of chronic skin diseases, although the range of potential applications has not been fully explored. METHODS: Twelve adults and six children affected by localized lesions of AD were enrolled in this pilot study and treated with a weekly session of MEL. A range of 6-12 sessions was performed with an increasing dosage according to the patient's phototype and response. Follow-up was for 16 wk. RESULTS: All patients completed the protocol. At the end of treatment complete remission was observed in 12/18 patients (66.7%), a partial remission in 3/18 (16.7%) and no remission in 3/18 (16.7%). A mean total dose of 21.89 minimal erythemal dose (MED) was performed. Forty-four percent of patients maintained the results achieved at a 16-week follow-up. Treatment was well tolerated overall. CONCLUSIONS: MEL can be considered as a valid and safe therapeutic option for the treatment of localized AD in adults and children.     

308nm准分子激光联合哈西奈德溶液治疗头皮银屑病的疗效观察

目的：探讨308nm准分子激光治疗头皮银屑病的临床疗效。方法：将80例头皮银屑病患者分为两组：治疗组40例,给予308nm准分子激光照射治疗,2次／周,期间外用哈西奈德溶液,2次／天;对照组40例,外用哈西奈德溶液,2次／天。两组均治疗4周后观察疗效。结果：治疗组与对照组总有效率分别为97．5％和70％,两组比较有显著性差异（r=11．11,P〈0．01）。结论：308nm准分子激光联合哈西奈德溶液治疗头皮银屑病疗效确切,不良反应少。     

Clinical Evaluation of a 1,450-nm Diode Laser as Adjunctive Treatment for Refractory Facial Acne Vulgaris

BACKGROUND Despite aggressive multitreatment medical acne regimens, many patients demonstrate modest benefit. The 1,450-nm diode laser has been shown to improve acne in a study setting.
OBJECTIVE Herein we evaluate the use of this laser as an adjunctive tool in the management of refractory facial acne vulgaris.
MATERIALS AND METHODS Thirteen patients were treated. Lesion counts, clinical evaluation, and digital photography were performed at baseline and at all follow-up visits. Patients received an average of three treatments. Acne severity index and patient satisfaction were assessed. Patients continued their medical acne regimen where applicable.
RESULTS Mean total lesion and inflammatory lesion counts decreased from 66 ± 14 and 23 ± 5 at baseline to 34 ± 12.9 and 14 ± 7 after three treatments ( p <.05). Side effects were mild, including erythema lasting up to 24 hours.
CONCLUSION The 1,450-nm diode laser provides moderate improvement of refractory acne vulgaris. Our findings support the use of this device as an adjunctive treatment for acne management.     

308-nm Excimer Laser for the Treatment of Alopecia Areata

BACKGROUND Alopecia areata is loss of hair from localized or diffuse areas of hair-bearing area of the skin. Recently there are reports of efficacy of the 308-nm excimer radiation for this condition.
OBJECTIVE To study the effect of the 308-nm excimer laser in the treatment of alopecia areata.
MATERIALS AND METHODS Eighteen patients with 42 recalcitrant patches (including 1 adult with alopecia totalis) were enrolled in this study. The lesions were treated with the 308-nm excimer laser twice a week for a period of 12 weeks; one lesion on each patient was left as a control for comparison.
RESULTS There were 7 males and 11 females in this study. Regrowth of hair was observed in 17 (41.5%) patches. Thirteen of the 18 lesions in scalp showed a complete regrowth of hair. The extremity regions failed to show a response. Atopic diatheses had an unfavorable effect on the outcome in our patients.
CONCLUSION The 308-nm excimer laser is an effective therapeutic option for patchy alopecia areata of the scalp and for some cases with patchy alopecia areata of the beard area. It does not work for patchy alopecia areata of the extremities.     

The Use of the 308-nm Excimer Laser for the Treatment of Vitiligo

BACKGROUND: Recent reports show that 308-nm excimer laser may be an effective and safe method for the treatment of vitiligo, which is usually resistant to other available treatment methods. OBJECTIVE: The objective was to study the effectiveness of the new 308-nm excimer laser for the treatment of vitiligo. METHODS: A retrospective chart review of thirty-two patients with 55 spots of vitiligo were enrolled; a population-based sample was studied that included men and women, adults and children, with different ethnic backgrounds. The treatment was started with the lowest dose, which is 100 mJ/cm(2) (comparable to one minimal erythema dose value and one multiplier). Depending on Fitzpatrick skin type, the dose was raised gradually in a stepwise fashion. In skin types I to II, the same does was repeated twice before going up to avoid burns. Patients were treated for 30 sessions, or 75% repigmentation, whichever comes first. RESULTS: Overall 55 spots were treated: 29 (52.8%) had 75% pigmentation or greater, and 35 (63.7%) had 50% pigmentation or greater. The best results were on the face: of the 21 spots treated 15 (71.5%) had 75% pigmentation, and 16 (76.2%) had 50% pigmentation or greater. Other areas (neck, extremities, trunk, and genitals) had moderate response in comparison to the face. The least response was on the hands and feet; of the 5 spots treated only 20% showed 50% pigmentation or more. CONCLUSION: Slightly more than 50% of the patients tested showed 75% or more pigmentation of their lesions, after 30 treatments or less; most of the responders had Fitzpatrick skin type III and above. All the untreated patches (controls) remained unchanged. This demonstrates that the 308-nm excimer laser is an effective method of treatment for vitiligo.     

Treatment of Facial Rhytides With a Nonablative 1,450-nm Diode Laser: A Controlled Clinical and Histologic Study

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the safety and effectiveness of a nonablative 1,450-nm midinfrared diode laser in the treatment of facial rhytides. METHODS: Twenty-five patients (skin phototypes I-III) with mild-to-moderate perioral or periorbital rhytides received four successive treatments at 3- to 4-week intervals with a 1,450-nm diode laser (SmoothBeam; Candela Corp., Wayland, MA). Symmetrical matched areas were left untreated to serve as controls. Patients were evaluated with digital photography at each treatment session and at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after the final laser treatment. Skin biopsies were obtained from treatment and control facial sites for histologic evaluation before treatment, immediately after the first treatment, and 3, 6, and 12 months after the fourth treatment. Patient satisfaction scores were obtained at each follow-up visit. RESULTS: Mild to moderate improvement in treated facial rhytides was observed in all patients. Increased dermal collagen was seen 6 months after four successive treatments. Patient satisfaction scores paralleled the photographic and histopathologic changes seen. Side effects were limited to transient erythema, edema, and postinflammatory hyperpigmentation. CONCLUSION: The nonablative 1,450-nm diode laser is safe and effective for the treatment of mild-to-moderate facial rhytides.     

Patient Satisfaction and Reported Long-Term Therapeutic Efficacy Associated with 1,320 nm Nd:YAG Laser Treatment of Acne Scarring and Photoaging

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Nonablative laser treatments have become increasingly used for the treatment of acne scarring and photoaging. While nonablative laser treatments are more convenient and relatively safer than ablative laser resurfacing, efficacy and patient satisfaction with the level of improvement of textural abnormalities in acne scarring and rhytids associated with photoaging needs further study. DESIGN/MATERIALS AND METHODS: Structured interviews were performed with 34 patients from a referral-based academic practice who each previously received a series of 6 monthly treatments with a 1,320 nm neodymium:yttrium-aluminum-garnet (Nd:YAG) laser for treatment of acne scarring or photoaging. Topical anesthesia was applied 1 hour before each treatment. Patients were interviewed at least 3 months after cessation of treatment (range 3-12 months). RESULTS: Patients tolerated the treatments well. Combined results for acne scarring and photoaging patients were as follows: (a) patient satisfaction with treatment was rated at 62%, and (b) textural improvement was reported at 31% at the end of the six treatments, and 30% at the date of interview. When results were stratified by diagnosis, patient satisfaction was slightly higher for treatment of acne scarring than for photoaging. Overall degree of improvement on a 1-10 scale was 5.4 for acne scarring and 3.8 for wrinkling. CONCLUSION: Nonablative treatment with the 1,320 nm Nd:YAG laser induced significant patient-reported improvement in both acne scarring and photoaging. The majority of patients reported satisfaction with the degree of improvement.     

A Split-Face Comparison Study of Pulsed 532-nm KTP Laser and 595-nm Pulsed Dye Laser in the Treatment of Facial Telangiectasias and Diffuse Telangiectatic Facial Erythema

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Pulsed 595 nm and 532 nm lasers can effectively diminish or eliminate facial telangiectasia. We performed a split-face, single-blind, controlled, comparison study in an effort to determine their individual and comparative efficacy. STUDY DESIGN/MATERIALS AND METHODS: Fifteen patients were treated using a 595-nm PDL on one side of the face and a pulsed 532-nm potassium-titanyl-phosphate (KTP) laser on the other. Each subject was evaluated at 3 weeks after three treatments. RESULTS: Both devices improved telangiectasia. The 532-nm device, however, was at least as effective or more effective than the 595-nm laser in all subjects. On average, the KTP laser achieved 62% clearing after the first treatment and 85% clearing 3 weeks after the third treatment, compared to 49% and 75% for the PDL, respectively. Seventy-nine percent of KTP laser-treated patients continued to have swelling for greater than 1 day versus 71% of PDL-treated patients. Of those patients who noted persistent erythema for at least 1 day after treatment, 58% noted more erythema on the KTP laser-treated side compared to 8% on the PDL-treated side. CONCLUSIONS: Both the 595-nm and the 532-nm pulsed lasers are highly effective in the treatment of facial telangiectasia and redness. The 532-nm KTP laser appears to be more effective but causes more swelling and erythema.     

Evaluation of acne scar treatment with a 1450-nm midinfrared laser and 30% trichloroacetic acid peels

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy of treatment of established acne scars with a sequential combination of treatment using a 1450-nm, midinfrared, nonablative diode laser with dynamic cooling spray and 30% trichloroacetic acid peels. METHODS: In this prospective study 9 patients with atrophic rolling, boxcar, or both types of scars received 4 monthly treatments using a 1450-nm, midinfrared, nonablative, diode laser with dynamic cooling spray followed by 2 bimonthly treatments with 30% trichloroacetic acid peels. Blinded evaluators and the patients rated the results. RESULTS: The group of patients in this study had a greater improvement in their acne scars than has been reported for nonablative laser treatments by other authors. Comparing the results of treatment 2 months after the laser treatments with 2 months after the chemical peels, the patients had a greater improvement after the additional chemical peels. There were no complications in this study. The patients were able to continue all of their regular activities throughout the study. CONCLUSION: This sequential treatment regimen using the 1450-nm, midinfrared, nonablative diode laser with dynamic cooling spray and 30% trichloroacetic acid peels produced a noticeable improvement in the acne scars without any associated morbidity.     

Treatment of Inverse Psoriasis with the 308 nm Excimer Laser

BACKGROUND: The treatment of inverse psoriasis can be both challenging and frustrating. Conventional topical and systemic treatments can be limited in terms of efficacy, acceptability and safety. The 308 nm excimer laser has been shown to be effective in the treatment of psoriatic plaques. METHODS: A patient with chronic inverse psoriasis was treated with 308 nm excimer laser using a 3.5 cm spot, a dosage of 2 minimal erythema doses and a pulse width of 30 ns. RESULTS: Complete clearance of the psoriatic lesions was obtained after 3 weeks of treatment. Remission duration was at least 6 months. CONCLUSION: The 308 nm excimer laser is safe and effective for the treatment of inverse psoriasis. Treatments are well tolerated with minimal side effects.     

他克莫司软膏联合308nm准分子激光治疗儿童局限性白癜风

目的:本研究旨在评价0.03%他克莫司软膏和308 nm准分子激光治疗儿童局限性白癜风的安全性和有效性。同时研究308nm准分子激光联合外用0.03%他克莫司软膏对疗效的影响。方法:76个患者入组研究,研究采用随机单盲自身对照试验共15周。入组患者均具有两侧对称病变,进行左/右面部、躯干、手足的比较。按患者2至4个靶病变随机分为两组:A组患者外用0.03%他克莫司软膏,每天两次;B组患者外用0.03%他克莫司软膏每日两次,联合308nm准分子激光治疗,每周两次。研究期间对疗效和安全性因素进行评价。结果:76个患者完成了研究,A组91.3%和B组97.4%的皮损观察到复色。与治疗前相比,A组和B组皮损均明显改善。B组72.3%的皮损获得4级复色,与A组比较有显着性差异(P<0.05)。面颈部的复色率(复色75%以上)明显高于躯干、四肢、手足的复色率(P<0.05)。两组患者未见明显的副作用,两组之间的副作用发生率没有显著差异。结论:0.03%的他克莫司软膏和308 nm准分子激光对于治疗儿童局限性白癜风是安全、有效的,且耐受性良好。联合使用他克莫司软膏和308nm准分子激光显著提高疗效。     

A Combination of Non-ablative Laser and Hyaluronic Acid Injectable for Postacne Scars: A Novel Treatment Protocol

BackgroundPostacne facial scars are often associated with significant patient distress. Energy-based devices, including non-ablative lasers, are commonly used for the treatment of postacne scarring. There is relatively limited data regarding the combination of non-ablative lasers with hyaluronic acid injections for postacne scarring.ObjectiveWe aimed to evaluate the efficacy of a non-ablative 1,540-nm erbium:glass laser combined with a hyaluronic acid injectable for the treatment of postacne scars.MethodsThis was a retrospective analysis of 12 patients who underwent the full treatment protocol. A before and after blinded clinical evaluation was performed independently by two dermatologists and graded on a scale from 0 (indicating a worsening of scarring) to 4 (indicating a 76–100% improvement in scarring). Pain perception, adverse effects, and patient satisfaction were evaluated.ResultsA mean correct blinded before and after evaluation by two dermatologists was 96 percent. Patients demonstrated mild to moderate improvement as assessed by a quartile scale of improvement (25–50%). Mild transient pain was reported by most patients. The satisfaction level of the patients was high (4 out of 5).LimitationsThe limitations of our study include the small cohort, retrospective design, and lack of a histological correlation.ConclusionOur results suggest that this combination treatment using 1,540-nm fractional erbium:glass laser and hyaluronic acid injections is both safe and effective for patients with postacne facial scars.