Lentigo maligna--outcomes of treatment with Q-switched Nd:YAG and alexandrite lasers.
BACKGROUND
Surgical excision is considered the criterion standard treatment for lentigo maligna (LM) but may sometimes be unsuitable for elderly people or in the treatment of large lesions.


OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the role of Q-switched neodymium-doped yttrium aluminium garnet (QS:Nd:YAG) and alexandrite lasers in the treatment of LM.


METHODS
QS:NdYAG and alexandrite lasers were used to treat histologically proven LM in 22 patients who were considered unsuitable for wide surgical excision or declined it. Patients were assessed at 6-month intervals for a maximum period of 5 years.


RESULTS
Complete clinical response was achieved in 12 patients after one to four treatments and a follow-up of 2 to 5 years after last treatment. Excellent cosmesis was achieved in all patients. LM melanoma developed in two lesions, which were subsequently excised. Recurrence occurred in four patients.


CONCLUSIONS
Although QS:Nd:YAG and alexandrite laser treatment of LM produced long-term clearance in 12 of the 22 patients, the ease and speed of this treatment and excellent cosmetic outcome achieved make this a suitable alternative to surgical excision, especially in elderly people, in treatment of large lesions, or in patients who refuse surgical treatment.
Madan
Vishal
V
Laser Division, Dermatology Centre, Salford Royal Hospitals Foundation NHS Trust, Stott Lane, Manchester, United Kingdom. vishalmadan@doctors.org.uk
August
Paul J
PJ
D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D018327:Hutchinson's Melanotic Freckle / Q000532:radiotherapy*; D053685:Laser Therapy / Q000295:instrumentation*; D007834:Lasers; D053844:Lasers, Solid-State; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D016896:Treatment Outcome