title: Minocycline-induced hyperpigmentation treated with a 755-nm Q-switched alexandrite laser.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Cutaneous pigmentation associated with minocycline therapy is an unusual adverse effect for which few successful treatments have been described. The pigment changes may persist for years, despite cessation of therapy, and is often cosmetically disfiguring, causing significant embarrassment and psychological depression in those affected. Few safe and effective treatments have been described in the past; however, recent pigment-specific laser technology has shown promise in the treatment of this condition.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  The objective was to describe a series of patients with minocycline-induced hyperpigmentation who were successfully treated with a 755-nm Q-switched alexandrite laser.
  
  
  METHODS
  Six patients with minocycline-induced hyperpigmentation on the face or legs were treated with a Q-switched alexandrite laser on a bimonthly basis until pigmentation was eradicated.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Cutaneous pigmentation resolved completely in all patients in an average of four laser sessions. Side effects were limited to transient purpura and mild desquamation without scarring or dyspigmentation.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Minocycline-induced cutaneous pigmentation can be effectively cleared without risk of adverse sequelae by Q-switched alexandrite (755-nm) laser irradiation.
authors.affiliation: Washington Institute of Dermatologic Laser Surgery, Washington, DC 20037, USA. talster@skinlaser.com
authors.forename: Tina S
authors.initials: TS
authors.lastname: Alster
authors.forename: Samir N
authors.initials: SN
authors.lastname: Gupta
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents / Q000009:adverse effects*; D001608:Beryllium; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D017495:Hyperpigmentation / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000532:radiotherapy*; D053685:Laser Therapy; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D008911:Minocycline / Q000009:adverse effects*
chemical_list: D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents; C112654:alexandrite; D008911:Minocycline; D001608:Beryllium