Efficacy and adverse effects of Q-switched ruby laser on solar lentigines: a prospective study of 91 patients with Fitzpatrick skin type II, III, and IV.
BACKGROUND
Laser-induced postinflammatory hyperpigmentation could be a limiting factor for selecting patients appropriate for the use of ruby laser in the treatment of lentigenes, especially in dark-skinned individuals.


OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the efficacy and adverse effects of Q-switched ruby laser light (694 nm) on solar lentigines in patients with Fitzpatrick skin type II, III, and IV.


METHODS
Controlled comparison study in a university-based laser clinic center. Ninety-one solar lentigines in patients with skin type II, III, and IV were enrolled. All patients were followed for 6 months for frequency of side effects. Before-and-after photographs and images from all follow-up sessions were taken and then assessed by a blinded dermatologist for the evaluation of side effects.


RESULTS
Complete clearance was achieved in all patients. Postinflammatory dyspigmentation occurred in 7.8% patients with Fitzpatrick skin type II, 9.8% patients with type III, and 16.6 patients with type IV (p=.67); all improved over a 6-month follow-up period.


CONCLUSIONS
Q-switched ruby laser treatment is a safe procedure for the treatment of solar lentigines even in dark-skinned individuals. Considering routine factors in addition to melanin content alone is required for minimizing side effects, especially postinflammatory hyperpigmentation in darker skin.
Sadighha
Afshin
A
Department of Dermatology, Imam Khumeini Hospital, Ilam University of Medical Science, Ilam, Iran. afshin.sadighha@gmail.com
Saatee
Siavosh
S
Muhaghegh-Zahed
Golnaz
G
D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D053844:Lasers, Solid-State / Q000009:adverse effects; D007911:Lentigo / Q000145:classification* / Q000601:surgery*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011446:Prospective Studies