Q-switched ruby laser treatment for postsclerotherapy hyperpigmentation.
BACKGROUND
One of the most common adverse sequelae of sclerotherapy is cutaneous hyperpigmentation.


OBJECTIVE
We used the Q-switched ruby laser to treat postsclerotherapy hyperpigmentation.


METHODS
Eight patients developed pigmentation lasting more than 1 year (1-2 years on average) after sclerotherapy treatment for reticular and telangiectatic veins in the legs ranging in size from 0.2 to 4 mm in diameter. All patients were treated with a Q-switched ruby laser at 694 nm, 4 mm beam size, and fluence range of 5.6-10.5 J/cm2.


RESULTS
Ninety-two percent of lesions lightened after treatment. There was significant (75-100%) resolution of hyperpigmentation in 58% of treated areas, 25% improvement in 33% of treated areas, and no improvement in the remaining areas.


CONCLUSIONS
Our impression is that given a choice of lasers, the Q-switched ruby laser provides the greatest efficacy for treating postsclerotherapy hyperpigmentation.
Tafazzoli
A
A
University of California, San Diego, School of Medicine, San Diego, California, USA.
Rostan
E F
EF
Goldman
M P
MP
D006801:Humans; D017495:Hyperpigmentation / Q000209:etiology* / Q000628:therapy*; D053685:Laser Therapy; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D015911:Sclerotherapy / Q000009:adverse effects*; D013997:Time Factors