title: A retrospective study of the management of Chinese melasma patients using a 1927 nm fractional thulium fiber laser.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  A new fractional photothermolysis device is used in our retrospective study to treat melasma in Chinese patients.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  To evaluate the efficacy and safety of the 1927 nm fractional thulium fiber laser in the treatment of melasma in Chinese patients.
  
  
  METHODS
  Eleven melasma patients who received treatment between November 2009 and May 2010 were included. Photographic images at baseline and follow-up were assessed for clinical efficacy and complications by two independent and blinded physicians. Questionnaires were also completed by patients.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Significant MASI improvements were seen at 1 week, 1 month and 2 months, but not at 3 months. Patients' degree of satisfaction was high. Significant improvement in skin texture and pore size was seen for up to 2 months and improvement in wrinkles for up to a month. There was no change in skin laxity. Main adverse effects seen were erythema, edema, and crusting in the early days. One patient developed PIH.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The novel 1927 nm fractional thulium fiber laser is safe and effective in the management of melasma in Chinese patients for up to 2 months. It is also useful in photo-rejuvenation. Complications were limited to erythema and edema in the early days, and transient PIH.
authors: Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China. sgyho@doctors.org.uk
authors: Stephanie G Y
authors: SG
authors: Ho
authors: C K
authors: CK
authors: Yeung
authors: Nicola P Y
authors: NP
authors: Chan
authors: Samantha Y
authors: SY
authors: Shek
authors: Henry H L
authors: HH
authors: Chan
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D004487:Edema / Q000209:etiology; D004890:Erythema / Q000209:etiology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D017495:Hyperpigmentation / Q000209:etiology; D053844:Lasers, Solid-State / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D008548:Melanosis / Q000601:surgery*; D008875:Middle Aged; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D011693:Purpura / Q000209:etiology; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D015595:Skin Aging; D013932:Thulium
chemical_list: D013932:Thulium