title: The effect of menstrual cycle on laser induced hyperpigmentation.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  Laser induced post inflammatory hyperpigmentation PIH, is a complication seen mostly in dark skinned patients, it is not known whether giving the laser treatment at specific menstrual period days, may predispose to PIH.
  
  
  METHODS
  Seven volunteers underwent fixed fractionated CO2 laser treatments at four predetermined days spanning the menstrual cycle.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Two volunteers developed hypopigmentation while the rest had hyperpigmentation. In those who developed PIH, the pigmentation was most severe when done just before or after menstruation.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Laser induced PIH risk may be influenced by the menstrual cycle.
authors.forename: Saad
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Al Mohizea
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D017495:Hyperpigmentation / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000209:etiology*; D017496:Hypopigmentation / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000209:etiology*; D007249:Inflammation / Q000209:etiology / Q000473:pathology; D054020:Lasers, Gas / Q000009:adverse effects*; D008597:Menstrual Cycle / Q000502:physiology*; D012720:Severity of Illness Index; D012867:Skin / Q000528:radiation effects; D012880:Skin Pigmentation