[Treatment by non-physicians of skin diseases--including potentially malignant diseases with lasers and intense pulsed light].
BACKGROUND
Laser and IPL treatment by non-physicians raises professional concern. The purpose of this investigation is to evaluate laser and IPL treatment carried out by non-physicians and to assess the level of pre-treatment information given to patients.


METHODS
Approached clinics were found by internet-searches and from advertisements in telephone directories and national newspapers. The target group was clinics in Zealand that offer laser or IPL treatment of pigmented lesions, pigmented nevi, sun-damaged skin, acne and/or unwanted hair growth. The investigation did not include specialised clinics run by dermatologists and plastic surgeons. By means of anonymous telephone calls the clinics were presented for standardized questions under the pretext of being a potential client.


RESULTS
Of 28 clinics investigated, 93% offered treatment for unwanted hair growth, 75% for pigmented lesions, 50% for acne, 36% for possible actinic keratoses and 29% for pigmented nevi. Medical examination was an exception (11%). In none of the clinics were medical examinations performed by specialists in dermatology or plastic surgery. Cosmeticians or nurses generally gave the laser and IPL treatments. In 57% of the clinics patients were informed that the treatment did not have any risks. In June treatment was offered in 79% of the clinics, 18% of which mentioned that no special precautions were necessary when treating in sunny periods.


CONCLUSIONS
Laser and IPL treatment of skin diseases, including potential malignant diseases, is carried out by non-physicians and pre-treatment information contains major errors and shortcomings.
Beyer
Ditte Maria
DM
Dermatologisk Afdeling D-92, H:S Bispebjerg Hospital, DK-2400 København NV.
Wulf
Hans Christian O
HC
Stender
Ida-Marie
IM
Haedersdal
Merete
M
D002983:Clinical Competence; D003718:Denmark; D003880:Dermatology / Q000592:standards; D006801:Humans; D053685:Laser Therapy; D007834:Lasers / Q000009:adverse effects; D010353:Patient Education as Topic / Q000592:standards; D010789:Phototherapy / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods* / Q000592:standards; D011786:Quality Control; D012307:Risk Factors; D012871:Skin Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000628:therapy*; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D000078329:Workforce