title: A Pilot Study of Q-switched 1064-nm Nd:YAG Laser Treatment in the Keratosis Pilaris.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Keratosis pilaris (KP) is a keratinization disorder that is characterized by follicular hyperkeratosis, with surrounding erythema. Topical treatments are widely used, but their effects are limited.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  To evaluate the effectiveness of the Q-switched 1064-nm Nd:YAG laser for the treatment of KP.
  
  
  METHODS
  Total of 12 patients with KP were treated with a Q-switched 1064-nm Nd:YAG laser. Ten sessions of laser treatment were delivered once every two weeks. The entire lesions were treated with the following laser settings: 4.0~5.0 J/cm(2), 4-mm spot size, and three passes. Two dermatologists' clinical evaluations and patients' satisfaction were assessed between before treatment (baseline) and at 1 month after the last treatment.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Eleven of the twelve patients showed more than grade 2 (>25%) improvement in texture and dyspigmentation in KP lesions, respectively. A half of the patients (50%) showed more than 50% improvement in the skin texture. Regarding dyspigmentation, five patients (41.7%) showed more than 50% improvement. Eleven out of twelve participants were satisfied (>25% of the Patients' self assessment) with the procedure. No significant adverse effect was observed.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Although the Q-switched 1064-nm laser treatment may not be the first line therapy for KP, it might be a new treatment option for the patients with recalcitrant KP.
authors: Department of Dermatology, Chung-Ang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.
authors: Juhee
authors: J
authors: Park
authors: Beom Joon
authors: BJ
authors: Kim
authors: Myeung Nam
authors: MN
authors: Kim
authors: Chang Kyun
authors: CK
authors: Lee