A retrospective chart review of the clinical efficacy of Nd:YAG 1064-nm laser for toenail onychomycosis.

Abstract

Cosmetic improvement in nail appearance is a great concern to patients with onychomycosis. Although oral and topical treatments for onychomycosis can potentially eradicate the infection, unsightly nails may remain despite negative mycology. Laser-based devices have been approved for the temporary clearance of nails with onychomycosis, thus providing a means of improving the aesthetic appearance of the nails. A retrospective chart review of patients treated with a Nd:YAG 1064-nm laser and debridement for onychomycosis, and terbinafine 1% cream for associated tinea pedis, between July 2012 and February 2014 was performed to ascertain the proportion of patients who achieved clinical outcomes. A temporary improvement in the appearance of the target nail was observed in 78% of patients and the affected area of the nail plate was reduced by at least 50% from baseline in 46% of patients. It appears that patients whose great toenails are potentially infected with non-dermatophyte molds may particularly benefit from laser therapy. Higher clinical outcome rates were observed with administration of four or more treatments, but additional observations and/or studies are needed to optimize the regimen of laser therapy to improve the cosmetic appearance of infected nails.

• Authors: Aditya K Gupta, Maryse Paquet
• Journal: The Journal of dermatological treatment (J Dermatolog Treat) Vol. 26 Issue 4 Pg. 376-8 ( 2015) ISSN: 1471-1753 [Electronic] England
• PMID: 25329992 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't)

Chemical References

• Naphthalenes
• Terbinafine

Topics

• Administration, Topical
• Adult
• Debridement
• Female
• Foot Dermatoses (therapy)
• Humans
• Lasers, Solid-State (therapeutic use)
• Low-Level Light Therapy (methods)
• Male
• Middle Aged
• Naphthalenes (administration & dosage)
• Onychomycosis (therapy)
• Retrospective Studies
• Terbinafine
• Treatment Outcome