Long-pulsed 532-nm Nd:YAG laser treatment for small acquired melanocytic nevi in a single session: an 8-year study on 350 Yemeni patients.

Abstract

INTRODUCTION:

Current laser treatments for acquired melanocytic nevi are unpredictable in terms of efficiency and cause considerable scarring. This study aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of the long-pulsed 532-nm Nd:YAG laser for removing small acquired melanocytic nevi in Yemeni patients.

METHODS AND MATERIALS:

From January 2004 to 2012, 350 patients (M:F; 41:309) with Fitzpatrick skin type IV and 1 or more small acquired melanocytic nevi were included in the study. The patients were exposed to the following laser parameters: wavelength, 532 nm; pulse duration, 20 ms; spot size, 2 mm; fluence, 30-50 j/cm². Photographs were taken on 0, 1, 4, and 12 weeks posttreatment. The follow-up period ranged from 12 weeks to 5 years.

RESULTS:

All nevi were completely removed with good to excellent cosmetic results in only one session. Side effects were seen in 30% of patients; the majority was temporary and, very mild in intensity, such as postinflammatory hyperpigmentation. Atrophic and hypertrophic scars were observed in 9.4% and 0.6% of cases, respectively. Recurrence was seen within 2-6 months after laser treatment in 25 patients.

CONCLUSION:

The long-pulsed, 532-nm Nd:YAG laser is safe and effective in the removal of small acquired melanocytic nevi in Yemeni patients.

• Authors: Mohammad Ali Alshami
• Journal: Journal of cosmetic and laser therapy : official publication of the European Society for Laser Dermatology (J Cosmet Laser Ther) Vol. 16 Issue 1 Pg. 14-20 (Jan 2014) ISSN: 1476-4180 [Electronic] England
• PMID: 24131093 (Publication Type: Journal Article)

Topics

• Adolescent
• Adult
• Cicatrix, Hypertrophic (etiology)
• Female
• Follow-Up Studies
• Humans
• Hyperpigmentation (etiology)
• Laser Therapy (adverse effects, methods)
• Lasers, Solid-State (adverse effects, therapeutic use)
• Male
• Neoplasm Recurrence, Local
• Nevus, Pigmented (surgery)
• Patient Satisfaction
• Photography
• Skin Neoplasms (surgery)
• Yemen
• Young Adult